Francis Iwuchukwu 
…Calls For End To Intimidation
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu’s government to stop using security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), to target citizens exercising their human rights.
SERAP demands that the DSS withdraw a defamation lawsuit filed by its agents against the organization.
The defamation suit, filed last week by two DSS officials, follows allegations by SERAP regarding a recent raid on its Abuja office by DSS operatives. SERAP claims the lawsuit is an attempt to silence criticism of government actions.
In an open letter dated October 19, 2024, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization expressed concern over what it described as a misuse of the DSS to target human rights defenders.
“We are seriously concerned that your government seems to be weaponizing the DSS and misusing defamation laws as a tool of repression,” the letter reads.
“SERAP criticized the Tinubu administration for focusing on suppressing critics rather than addressing issues like corruption in the oil sector and Nigeria’s economic challenges.
It called on the government to investigate these allegations rather than use security agencies to intimidate those raising concerns.
“SERAP warned that it is prepared to defend itself and its staff in court if the lawsuit is not withdrawn, including bringing witnesses to address the matter and ensure accountability.
The organization highlighted its history of pursuing public interest cases since 2004 against past administrations, noting that this is the first time a government has allegedly used security agencies to intimidate it.
The letter emphasized the importance of allowing human rights defenders, journalists, and activists to operate freely without facing baseless legal actions.
SERAP stressed that such actions undermine democracy, perpetuate impunity, and erode the rule of law.
Additionally, the organization criticized the government for not responding to its recommendations, including calls to reverse a fuel price increase and investigate alleged corruption within the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
SERAP pointed out the government’s failure to address these issues, as well as to comply with court rulings related to transparency and accountability.
SERAP accused the government of escalating repression against human rights advocates, referencing the alleged DSS raid on its Abuja office and the subsequent defamation lawsuit number CV/4547/24.
The group urged President Tinubu to cease all forms of intimidation and harassment directed at its organization and other civil society actors.
The letter concluded with a call for the government to respect the rule of law, stating that doing so is essential for achieving the administration’s economic and development goals.
SERAP underscored its commitment to holding the government accountable, emphasizing that its work is guided by principles of justice, transparency, and human rights advocacy.
