By Our Correspondent
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has appealed the N100 million defamation judgment awarded against it and is seeking a stay of execution pending the determination of the appeal.
The organisation filed its appeal following a court ruling which found it liable in a defamation suit instituted by the Department of State Services (DSS). SERAP is now asking the appellate court to suspend the enforcement of the judgment until all legal processes are concluded.
In its application, the organisation argued that enforcing the judgment before the appeal is heard could create serious legal and financial consequences, especially if the appeal eventually succeeds. SERAP maintained that its appeal raises important constitutional and public interest issues that deserve judicial consideration.
The group also stated that granting a stay of execution would help preserve the subject matter of the case and prevent what it described as irreversible damage while the appellate process continues.
The legal dispute between SERAP and the DSS stems from allegations the security agency considered defamatory. However, SERAP insists that its actions and public statements were made within the framework of civic engagement, accountability, and the promotion of transparency in governance.
Legal analysts say the appeal could attract significant public attention because it touches on issues relating to freedom of expression, civic advocacy, and the relationship between state institutions and civil society organisations in Nigeria.
Observers also note that the outcome of the appeal may shape future interactions between public institutions and advocacy groups, particularly on matters involving criticism of government agencies and public accountability.
Meanwhile, SERAP has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the matter through legal channels, expressing confidence that the appellate court will fairly consider its arguments.
The organisation further urged supporters and members of the public to remain calm as the judicial process takes its course, emphasizing that respect for the rule of law remains central to democratic governance.
The case is expected to continue in the coming weeks as the appellate court considers the application for stay of execution alongside the substantive appeal challenging the defamation judgment.
