The Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Abuja has adjourned further hearing in a ₦5.5 billion defamation lawsuit filed by two operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP.
The case, which was earlier scheduled for Wednesday, November 12, was postponed to November 24 after the presiding judge, Justice Yusuf Halilu, was reported to be indisposed.
The court’s registrar, Mr. A.O. Yinka, informed lawyers and litigants of the development, explaining that he had been directed by the judge to announce his inability to preside over the matter.
As a result, the court fixed a new date for SERAP to open its defence in the case, which was initiated by two DSS personnel, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye.
At the last hearing on October 16, SERAP’s counsel, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), had written to the court stating his inability to attend the session.
The plaintiffs’ counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), confirmed receipt of the communication and did not object to the adjournment.
In a statement after the sitting, Kehinde expressed confidence that the case would proceed smoothly on the next adjourned date, adding that his clients were eager to see justice served.
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The plaintiffs allege that SERAP published false and damaging statements about them, accusing them of unlawfully invading an office complex — claims they insist have tarnished their professional image and integrity as DSS operatives.
They are demanding ₦5.5 billion in damages from SERAP as compensation for the reputational harm suffered and have also requested an order of perpetual injunction to restrain the organization from making similar publications in the future.
According to court records, Justice Halilu had initially scheduled November 12 for SERAP to begin its defence, but the date has now been moved due to his ill health.
The case, which has drawn attention for its high-value damages claim and implications for freedom of expression and accountability advocacy, is expected to resume later this month as both sides prepare to argue their positions before the court.
With the new hearing date set for November 24, all parties are expected to appear as the legal battle between the DSS operatives and the prominent civic rights group continues.
Crediblenewsng.com
