DSS operatives Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye have filed a N5 billion lawsuit against SERAP, alleging defamation after the organization falsely accused them of unlawfully invading its office. The lawsuit claims damage to their reputations and emotional distress due to SERAP's public statements regarding their actions.
Two operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, have filed a N5 billion lawsuit against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for alleged defamation. The suit, registered as CV/4547/2024 in the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory on October 17, accuses SERAP of making false allegations that the DSS unlawfully invaded their office in Abuja.
The claimants assert that on September 9, 2024, they were directed by the DSS to invite SERAP's new leadership for a meeting. After visiting SERAP’s office, the organization posted on social media, alleging that DSS officers were unlawfully occupying their premises and calling for government intervention against harassment. This statement led to widespread media coverage and public condemnation, including comments from notable lawyer Femi Falana.
The DSS operatives claim that SERAP's statements have damaged their reputations, leading to public ridicule and an ongoing internal investigation within the DSS. They report feeling ostracized by colleagues, facing a disciplinary panel, and enduring significant emotional distress as a result of the situation. The plaintiffs are seeking a public apology and substantial financial compensation as damages for the alleged libel, alongside additional legal costs of N50 million.
