The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has fixed June 30, 2025, for the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to open its defence in the ₦5 billion defamation suit filed by two officials of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The claimants, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele—both DSS operatives—are suing SERAP and its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, for allegedly publishing claims that DSS operatives invaded SERAP’s Abuja office in September 2024. They are demanding ₦5 billion in damages, a public apology published on SERAP’s website, national newspapers, and television stations, ₦50 million in legal costs, and 10% annual interest on the damages until payment is made.

The DSS closed its case on Tuesday after presenting its final witness, John Afolabi, an operative who serves as Director of Investigations in the agency.

Under cross-examination by SERAP’s counsel, Divine Oguru, Afolabi admitted that he was not present during the alleged invasion. He also disclosed that his testimony was based on information obtained from the internet, television broadcasts, social media platforms, and interviews he conducted as part of an internal investigation.

“You were not at the office of the first defendant on September 9, 2024, when the claimants visited SERAP’s office?” Oguru asked.

“I wasn’t there. I was in the office. Until now, I have never been there,” Afolabi responded.

He confirmed that his statement on oath, dated December 3, 2024, was based on media sources and interviews. He stated that he had no documentary evidence to prove his status as a DSS operative beyond an affidavit.
Afolabi further explained that the publication regarding the visit embarrassed the DSS and prompted an internal inquiry. He said the reactions on social media showed the public was aware of the incident, which affected the Service’s image.

During cross-examination by the second defendant’s counsel, Oluwatisin Adesioye, Afolabi confirmed that the claimants work under his Directorate on the NGO desk but report to an immediate supervisor subordinate to him.

He reiterated that he only became aware of the SERAP office visit after it had occurred.

When asked if any other operations were conducted that day, he said, “No operation. The lady visited SERAP’s office. That was the only visitation carried out.”

Following the testimony, Justice Yusuf Halilu adjourned the matter to June 30 for SERAP to open its defence.