DSS Sues SERAP for ₦5.5 Billion Over Alleged Defamation

The Department of State Services (DSS) has initiated a ₦5.5 billion defamation lawsuit against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), alleging that the organization falsely claimed DSS officials unlawfully invaded its Abuja office.

The legal action, filed on October 17 at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, names SERAP and its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, as defendants.

The lawsuit was prompted by SERAP’s public assertions made on social media and its website, accusing two DSS officials, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, of invading its premises and interrogating staff members.

According to the DSS, John and Ogundele visited SERAP’s office on September 9 to discuss a potential collaboration. They were met by a staff member who requested a formal invitation letter, as the management was out of the country.

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The DSS claims their interaction was friendly and recorded, contradicting SERAP’s allegations.

“Their false statements have sparked public outrage, leading to unwarranted criticism and damaging our reputation,” the DSS contended in its suit.

The organization highlighted that the claims have not only harmed its public standing but have also resulted in internal investigations and disciplinary actions against the officials involved.

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The DSS is seeking several remedies from the court, including: An apology from SERAP, to be published on its website, social media platforms, and in two national newspapers and news stations.

₦5 billion in damages for the alleged defamatory statements, ₦50 million in legal costs.

The case has been assigned to Justice Yusuf Halilu, though a hearing date has yet to be scheduled.