Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Court Absence
- Rescheduling of Hearing
- Details of the Lawsuit
- Legal Representatives
- Allegations
- Previous Proceedings
The absence of Justice Yusuf Halilu from the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja on Wednesday delayed the hearing in a ₦5.5 billion defamation lawsuit brought against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) by two dissatisfied operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The hearing, originally scheduled for November 12, has been postponed to November 24 due to the Judge's indisposition and absence from court.
A court Registrar, Mr. A. O. Yinka, informed the lawyers and litigants present that he had received instructions from the Judge to announce his inability to attend.
He then requested that the lawyers involved in the pending cases convene and agree on suitable dates for their matters, which they did.
However, the case involving the DSS operatives was adjourned to November 24 for SERAP to present its defense in the lawsuit.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Akinlolu Thomas Kehinde, filed the suit on behalf of the two plaintiffs, while SERAP’s defense lawyer is Ebun Adegboruwa (SAN).
The two DSS operatives, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, initiated the action against SERAP, claiming that the organization defamed them with unfounded allegations in a media publication.
Specifically, the claimants asserted that SERAP defamed them by alleging that they unlawfully invaded their office, thereby jeopardizing their reputation as law-abiding security personnel.
Consequently, they requested the court to order SERAP to pay them ₦5.5 billion in compensation for the damages incurred.
The claimants also sought a perpetual injunction from the judge to prevent SERAP from further defaming them.
During the previous proceedings on October 16, SERAP’s lawyer, Ebun Adegboruwa (SAN), submitted a letter to the court indicating that he would be unable to attend the session.
The senior lawyer noted that he had a case at the Court of Appeal in Lagos and requested an adjournment until November 12.
The claimants’ counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), acknowledged receipt of the letter and the apology, and did not oppose the request for an adjournment.
Justice Halilu had originally set November 12 for SERAP to defend itself in the defamation suit; however, this date has now been moved to November 24.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the adjournment of the case?
The case was adjourned due to the absence of Justice Yusuf Halilu, who was indisposed and unable to attend the court hearing.
What amount is being claimed by the DSS operatives?
The DSS operatives are claiming ₦5.5 billion in damages for defamation.
When is the new date for the hearing?
The new date for the hearing is November 24.
