DSS Operatives Sue SERAP for N5 Billion Over Alleged Defamation
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Two operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have filed a N5 billion lawsuit against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for alleged defamation stemming from a recent social media post.
The suit, marked CV/4547/2024, was lodged at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory on October 17, 2024.
The claimants, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, assert that SERAP’s allegations, which suggested unlawful harassment during their visit to the organization’s Abuja office, have caused significant reputational damage.
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They contend that after being directed by the DSS to meet with SERAP’s new leadership on September 9, 2024, they were falsely accused of invading the office and interrogating staff.
In a detailed statement, John emphasized, “We were not followed by any other car or escorted by any other person,” countering SERAP’s claims that the DSS operatives had unlawfully occupied their premises.
SERAP’s tweet, which went viral, called for President Tinubu to intervene, stating, “officers from Nigeria’s DSS are presently unlawfully occupying SERAP’s office in Abuja.”
The operatives claim the false narrative has led to public ridicule and condemnation, affecting their standing within the DSS.
They report that their colleagues now view them as responsible for unauthorized actions that have tarnished the agency’s reputation. This has resulted in ongoing investigations, interrogations, and disciplinary proceedings against them.
“The emotional and psychological toll of this situation has been immense,” John stated, highlighting the isolation felt by both operatives as their peers scrutinize their actions.
In addition to seeking N5 billion in damages, the claimants demand a public apology to be issued through SERAP’s social media channels, major national newspapers, and television stations. They also seek N50 million to cover legal costs associated with the lawsuit.
