COURT ADJOURNS DSS N5BN DEFAMATION SUIT AGAINST SERAP TO FEBRUARY 19 FOR FINAL ADDRESSES
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
Justice Yusuf Halilu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, has adjourned proceedings in the ₦5 billion defamation suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to February 19, 2026, for the filing and adoption of final written addresses.
The suit, marked FCT/HC/CV/4547/2024, was instituted by DSS officials, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, accusing SERAP and its Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, of defamation over public statements relating to an alleged invasion of the organisation’s Abuja office.
During Monday’s resumed hearing, the court granted a procedural amendment request after which Oluwadare, testifying as PW2 (Second Defence Witness), adopted his statement on oath.
He clarified that SERAP is “a registered non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and social justice”, dismissing claims that it exists solely to criticise the government. He further emphasised that harassment of civic groups threatens public interest advocacy.
Under cross-examination, Oluwadare maintained that DSS personnel were sighted at SERAP’s premises on the day in question. While confirming no physical assault or property damage, he said the manner of entry and presence of unmarked vehicles raised alarm, prompting public alerts. He also noted that SERAP has CCTV footage of the incident.
Counsel to the DSS, Oluwagmileke Kehinde, informed the court that both parties had closed their cases and requested a date for final address adoption, leading to the adjournment.
The defendants in the suit are SERAP and its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare.
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