The Department of State Services (DSS) has clarified that a recent defamation case decided in favour of two of its operatives was not instituted by the agency itself, but by the officers in their personal capacity against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).

In a statement issued by the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications at DSS Headquarters, Favour Dozie, the Service said it had noticed several publications that, in its view, misrepresented the facts surrounding the case.

According to the DSS, the lawsuit was filed by two operatives who felt defamed after SERAP allegedly accused them of unlawfully invading its Abuja office on September 9, 2024, and harassing staff members.

The Service explained that an internal investigation was first conducted into the allegations before the officers, with approval from the Director-General, proceeded to seek legal redress in their personal capacities.

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory subsequently ruled in favour of the operatives, awarding them N100 million in damages. The court also ordered SERAP to publish public apologies on its website and in The PUNCH and Vanguard newspapers, as well as on Arise Television and Channels Television.

In addition, the judgment stated that the damages would attract 10 per cent annual interest from May 5, 2026, until full payment is made.

The DSS emphasised that it has a responsibility to protect its personnel who carry out lawful duties, while also maintaining discipline within its ranks. It noted that officers who violate laws or internal regulations are usually sanctioned, and in some cases prosecuted.

The Service also expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating that it addressed what it described as an injustice against its officers. It reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law.

The clarification follows widespread public reactions to the judgment, with the DSS insisting that the case was personal to the affected officers and not an institutional action against SERAP.

Meanwhile, SERAP has rejected the ruling, describing it as flawed and a “travesty of justice.” The organisation has confirmed plans to appeal the decision at the Court of Appeal, arguing that it amounts to a strategic lawsuit against public participation and raises concerns about civic space and freedom of expression in Nigeria.