The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has asked the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja to dismiss a N5 billion defamation lawsuit filed by the State Security Service (SSS).

The suit stems from statements made by SERAP in September 2024 after SSS officials visited its Abuja office. SERAP described the visit as an unlawful invasion and alleged harassment of its staff. The SSS denied the claims, insisting the visit was routine and peaceful.

Arguments Presented in Court

SERAP’s legal team argued that the alleged defamatory statements were directed at the SSS as an institution and not at specific individuals. Citing established legal precedent, counsel maintained that for a defamation claim to succeed, the publication must clearly identify the claimant personally.

The claimants — the SSS and two of its officers — are seeking:

N5 billion in damages

N50 million in legal costs

A public apology

10% annual interest on the judgement sum

Their counsel argued that the publication referred to them through contextual implication (innuendo), even if not explicitly named.

Court’s Position

Justice Yusuf Halilu emphasised that final written addresses cannot replace evidence in determining a case. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court reserved judgement.

Background to the Dispute

The controversy began in September 2024 when two SSS officials visited SERAP’s office in Abuja. While the SSS described the visit as part of routine engagement with non-governmental organisations, SERAP publicly characterised it as intimidation.

The disagreement escalated into legal action in October 2024, forming part of broader tensions between civil society organisations and security agencies in Nigeria.