CDHR Criticizes SERAP’s Response to Court Ruling
The Commission for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR) has expressed strong disapproval of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) following its criticism of the recent Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court decision. This ruling mandated the payment of NOK 100 million in damages to two employees of the Department of State Services (DSS) who were defamed by NGOs.
Court Ruling Includes Compensation and Apologies
In addition to the NOK 100 million awarded for general damages, Justice Khalil Yusuf instructed SERAP to cover NOK 1 million in legal costs for the plaintiffs, Sara John and Gabriel Ogundele. The court also required SERAP to issue an apology that would be published across two national newspapers and broadcasted on two television channels, as well as on its website and social media.
SERAP Voices Concerns Over Judicial Decision
SERAP and its affiliates have labeled this ruling as a “farce,” suggesting it serves as a government tactic aimed at curtailing free speech. Ebun-Olu Adegborowa, a senior attorney and trustee of SERAP, contended that the court’s judgment did not align with legal reasoning pertinent to the case. Kolawole Oluwadare, the group’s deputy director, described the verdict as peculiar.
Legal Experts Debate Defamation Standards
Oluwadare, speaking on News Central TV, noted that the court’s decision diverged from established legal principles used to adjudicate defamation cases, which typically require clear evidence of key elements such as the veracity of statements and their impact on a plaintiff’s reputation.
CDHR Calls for Respect of Judicial Authority
In response, CDHR criticized SERAP’s comments as contrary to the principles that govern a responsible NGO committed to socio-economic rights. The organization underscored the necessity for all stakeholders, including civil society groups, to respect judicial outcomes, irrespective of personal views or organizational interests.
Advocating for Responsible Free Speech
CDHR’s statement articulated that while individuals and advocacy groups have a constitutional right to free expression, exercising this right must be done responsibly and within legal boundaries. The court, after careful review, found the publications against the DSS operatives to be defamatory, thereby damaging their professional reputations.
Recommendations for SERAP’s Future Actions
CDHR advised SERAP to comply with the court’s ruling during the appeals process and to refrain from public statements that might further escalate tensions or undermine the judiciary’s authority. They recommended that SERAP allow the legal process to unfold appropriately while avoiding rhetoric that could erode institutional trust.
CAIDOV’s Condemnation and SERAP’s Reaction
Meanwhile, the Center Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) has also condemned SERAP’s stance. In a statement signed by Secretary-General Comrade Gbenga Soroki, SERAP ridiculed the court’s decision. CAIDOV emphasized the importance of integrity within the human rights community and pointed out that organizations should not infringe upon the rights of others, even in the pursuit of free speech.
Reflections on Accountability and Justice
CAIDOV highlighted that while eminent law firms globally have faced legal repercussions for unethical behavior, the NOK 100 million fine in question pales in comparison. They criticized senior legal professionals like Adegborowa for advocating criticisms instead of promoting legal recourse for their clients. The statement concluded by asserting the necessity for SERAP to respect the integral role of the judiciary and to accept legal outcomes, regardless of personal disagreements.
