Civil society coalition urges caution after SERAP, DSS Court ruling

A coalition of civil society groups has called for restraint following the recent Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court ruling involving the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and officials from the Department of State Services (DSS).

The coalition, made up of the Green Assembly Initiative and the Nigeria Youth Organization, made the call in a joint statement released in Abuja on Saturday. The statement was signed by Duke Alamboye, the coordinator of the Green Assembly Initiative.

The group was reacting to Judge Yusuf Halilu’s May 5 ruling in a defamation case brought against SERAP by DSS officials. The court found that SERAP had defamed two DSS officials through false publications made on September 10, 2024.

In its ruling, the FCT High Court, sitting in Maitama, concluded that DSS officials, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, had been defamed by false claims made by SERAP on its website and social media platforms. The allegations included claims that DSS officials had unlawfully invaded their office in Abuja on September 9, 2024 and subjected them to harassment.

Judge Halilu found the publications defamatory and awarded damages of $100 million to the defendants, along with $1 million to cover the costs of the legal proceedings.

In their statement, the coalition recognized the court’s authority but expressed concern about SERAP’s reaction to the ruling. They specifically criticized the organization for making public statements rejecting the ruling instead of seeking appellate review.

“We recognize that the judiciary is the final arbiter in disputes of this nature. However, we are concerned by SERAP’s continued public statements rejecting the ruling rather than pursuing an appeal,” the coalition said. “While we recognize the right of any party to express disagreement, we strongly believe that making public statements at this stage could increase tensions and undermine public confidence in the judicial process.”

The coalition also warned against media narratives surrounding ongoing litigation, warning that such narratives could erode trust in institutions, including the judiciary and security agencies.

They urged all parties involved to move forward with the appeals process rather than prolong public comments that could exacerbate divisions within the country.

“The appropriate and legitimate path forward remains the appeals process, not prolonged public comment that could deepen divisions or inflame national sensitivities,” the statement read.

The coalition emphasized that democracy thrives through respect for the courts, due process and responsible civic engagement. They called on Nigerians to uphold the integrity of national institutions and safeguard the rule of law.

Furthermore, the coalition urged civil society to continue to hold institutions accountable without weakening democratic structures. They called on all parties to reduce public rhetoric and allow appeals courts to resolve any further legal questions arising from the matter.