The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Maitama, has adjourned hearing in a ₦5.5 billion defamation lawsuit filed by two operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to 12 November 2025.
Justice Halilu Yusuf granted the adjournment on Thursday following the absence of SERAP’s lead counsel, Chief Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), who informed the court via a written letter of a scheduling conflict due to his appearance before the Court of Appeal in Lagos.
The plaintiffs, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, allege that SERAP made false and damaging media claims accusing them of unlawfully invading an office, which they argue defamed their character and subjected them to public ridicule.
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They are seeking ₦5.5 billion in damages, as well as a perpetual injunction to prevent SERAP from making further defamatory statements against them.
Adegboruwa’s letter clarified that while all parties had initially agreed to reconvene on 24 November, his chambers were not served with the hearing notice for the rescheduled 16 October date. In light of existing court commitments, he requested a new date—preferably 12 or 24 November.
The claimants’ counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), acknowledged receipt of the letter and did not oppose the application for adjournment.
Justice Yusuf subsequently rescheduled the matter for 12 November 2025, when SERAP is expected to open its defence.
