The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Maitama, on Thursday, adjourned the hearing of a ₦5.5 billion defamation suit filed by two Department of State Services operatives against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to November 12, 2025.
Justice Halilu Yusuf granted the adjournment following the absence of SERAP’s counsel, Chief Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), who cited a conflicting engagement at the Court of Appeal in Lagos.
The suit, filed by DSS operatives Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, alleges that SERAP made false and damaging claims in media publications, accusing them of unlawfully invading an office. The claimants argue that the publications tarnished their reputation and subjected them to public ridicule. They are seeking ₦5.5 billion in damages and a perpetual injunction restraining SERAP from making further defamatory statements.
In his letter to the court, Adegboruwa explained that although November 24 had initially been agreed upon as a hearing date, his chambers were not served with the notice setting the matter for October 16. He requested that the court reschedule the case to a convenient date, proposing November 12 or the originally agreed November 24.
Counsel to the claimants, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), confirmed receipt of the letter and did not oppose the adjournment. The court subsequently fixed November 12, 2025, for continuation of the hearing, during which SERAP is expected to present its defence.
