By Muhammad Mamman
The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned hearing in a ₦5.5 billion defamation suit filed by two operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) until 12 November.
Justice Halilu Yusuf postponed the case on Thursday following a letter from SERAP’s counsel, Ebun Adegboruwa (SAN), stating he was engaged with another matter at the Court of Appeal in Lagos.
The claimants, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, allege that SERAP defamed them in media publications by accusing them of unlawfully invading their workplace. They argue that the accusations damaged their reputations as law-abiding security personnel.
The operatives are seeking ₦5.5 billion in damages and are also asking the court to grant a perpetual injunction restraining SERAP from making further defamatory statements against them.
Counsel to the claimants, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), confirmed receipt of the letter from Mr Adegboruwa and did not object to the request for adjournment.
Justice Halilu adjourned the matter to 12 November for hearing.
