The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has adjourned hearing in a N5.5 billion defamation suit filed by two operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).
Justice Halilu Yusuf on Thursday postponed proceedings to 12 November after SERAP’s counsel, Mr Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), was unable to appear before the court.
Adegboruwa, in a letter addressed to the court, informed the judge that he had another engagement at the Court of Appeal in Lagos and requested an adjournment to enable him to attend the next sitting.
Counsel to the claimants, Mr Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), confirmed receiving the letter and expressed no objection to the request for adjournment.
Justice Yusuf subsequently granted the application and fixed 12 November for the continuation of hearing.
The case was instituted by two DSS operatives, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, who are seeking N5.5 billion in damages over alleged defamation by SERAP.
The claimants alleged that the organisation made unfounded accusations against them in the media, claiming they had unlawfully invaded an office.
They said the publication injured their reputation and portrayed them as lawbreakers rather than law enforcement officers.
They are asking the court to compel SERAP to pay compensation for the alleged harm caused to their character and professional standing. They are also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the organisation from making further defamatory statements against them.
With the adjournment, SERAP is expected to appear before the court on 12 November to respond to the claims.