Defamation Suit: SERAP Admits Error Against DSS

By Deji Adesogan

The defamation suit filed by two DSS operatives against SERAP took a dramatic turn on Monday when SERAP’s witness, Kolawole Oluwadare, admitted before the FCT High Court that his organisation’s publications had wrongly suggested an invasion that never occurred. Under cross-examination, Oluwadare acknowledged using strong words such as “unlawful invasion, intimidation and harassment” in statements accusing DSS officers Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele of storming SERAP’s Abuja office on September 9, 2024.

He told the court that he was not present during the visit and relied entirely on information from a receptionist, Vivian Amadi. Oluwadare further conceded that the DSS operatives neither broke into the building nor assaulted anyone, and that no property was seized or damaged. He also confirmed that the officers did not display weapons and that he never contacted the DSS for clarification before publishing the allegations, which were widely shared on SERAP’s website and X account.

The DSS operatives, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, maintain that their visit was part of a routine outreach to NGOs in the FCT and that they simply met a staff member, Ruth, who advised them to send a formal letter to SERAP’s leadership. They say they left immediately afterward, only to later see SERAP accuse them publicly of invading and harassing staff—claims that attracted criticism from Amnesty International, Femi Falana (SAN), and members of the public.

The operatives argue that the allegations have harmed their professional image within the DSS, making them appear as though they conducted an unauthorized and unprofessional operation. They are seeking a public apology across major media platforms, N5 billion in damages, N50 million in litigation costs, and interest on the judgment sum.

Justice Halilu Yusuf has adjourned the case to February 19, 2026, for the adoption of final written addresses.