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  • Group, NGE to govts: stop harassing journalists, activists, CSOs, bloggers

    Group, NGE to govts: stop harassing journalists, activists, CSOs, bloggers

    Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) have urged the Federal Government to stop  the intimidation and harassment of journalists, activists, bloggers and civil society organisations (CSOs).

    The groups called for an end to the use of some provisions of the Cybercrimes Act, criminal and penal codes those peacefully expressing their views online, and immediately release those arbitrarily detained across the country.

    They said: “Using repressive laws and strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP) lawsuits to intimidate and harass journalists, activists, bloggers and CSOs erodes democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria.”

    The statement followed the press conference and interactive session titled: ‘The Escalating Restrictions on Civic Space, Media Freedom and the Deterioration of Rule of Law in Nigeria’, held today at the Radisson Hotel, Ikeja.

    The event was jointly organized by SERAP and NGE to mark the International Human Rights Day.

     The groups also said: “the use of repressive laws and SLAPP lawsuits to crackdown on peaceful dissent is entirely inconsistent with the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country’s international human rights obligations.”

     According to the groups, “Nigerian authorities at all levels should show that they tolerate peaceful dissent and media freedom if the Nigerian people are to have any chance of holding them accountable on their constitutional oath of office, commitments and promises.”

    The statement, read in part: “Criminal defamation and SLAPP lawsuits are neither necessary nor proportionate under the Nigerian Constitution and human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a state party. Such lawsuits generate a chilling effect that inhibits the enjoyment of human rights and circulation of ideas and information.

    “A lawsuit challenging the legality and compatibility of some provisions of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024 with the rights to freedom of expression and information is pending before the ECOWAS Court.

    “As a matter of the rule of law, security and law enforcement agencies cannot and should not use the amended Act to continue to silence peaceful dissent pending the hearing and determination of the lawsuit by the court.

    “We are deeply concerned that Nigerian authorities at all levels and other actors continue to use repressive laws and misuse the judicial processes to normalize repression of the rights of journalists, bloggers, human rights defenders, activists, opposition politicians, artists and other Nigerians.

    “Impunity for those who threaten, intimidate and harass journalists, bloggers, human rights defenders and activists contributes to the hostile environment for these defenders of constitutionally and internationally guaranteed human rights in Nigeria.”

    Read Also: We have capacity to return Tinubu in 2027, says Fubara

    The group noted that the restrictions on civic space, human rights violations and suppression of the press in recent times take various forms ranging from extrajudicial to unlawful detentions, disappearances, malicious prosecutions and wrongful use of both legislation and law enforcement.

    The group stated that since the amendment of the Cybercrime Act in 2024, Nigerian authorities at all levels have consistently used the provisions of the Cybercrime Act including the provisions of section 24 on “cyberstalking” to harass, intimidate, arbitrarily arrest and detain and unfairly prosecute users of social media, activists, and journalists.

    According to them, Nigerian authorities at all levels increasingly use criminal defamation laws and other repressive laws to crack down on human rights and peaceful dissent, bringing frivolous lawsuits against journalists, bloggers, human rights defenders and activists.

     They expressed concern about the persistence of threats to journalists’ safety, and the potential chilling effect of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) and harassment, including by security agencies and politicians.

    “We note that journalists, bloggers, human rights defenders and activists play an indispensable role in documenting and reporting on human rights violations.

    “The right to freedom of expression applies to all kinds of information and ideas, including those that may shock, offend or disturb, and irrespective of the truth or falsehood of the content.

     “The provisions of section 24 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024 are inconsistent with the provisions of section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights to which Nigeria is a state party.

     “Stories published online have been deemed ‘offensive’, ‘obstructive’, ‘insulting’ or ‘annoying’ with actionable consequences under amended provisions of section 24 of the Cybercrime Act 2024, even when the stories are true and factual.

    “Also, stories published through traditional media outlets (print and electronic) that were never sanctioned by the government have been picked on upon being rebroadcast or republished through online platforms.”

    “State governors, security and law enforcement agencies and officials frequently misuse the legal and judicial processes including through the use of SLAPP lawsuits to target journalists, human rights defenders, activists and civil society organizations with impunity.”

     They said that in August 2024 alone, at least fifty-six (56) journalists were assaulted or arrested while covering demonstrations across the country. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Nigeria has dropped 10 spots to 122nd in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index.

    “Internet freedom of expression continues to decline due to an unprecedented pattern of arbitrary arrests and detention of bloggers after the enactment and amendment of the Cybercrime Act in 2024; most of whom are either pending at various police stations or courts of law.”

    “According to the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) Press Attack Tracker, there have been 110 verified attacks in the year 2024. In comparison to the previous year, the press attacks between the first and third quarter of 2024 have surpassed those of the entire year in 2023.

    “According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least three journalists in Nigeria have been detained since August on allegations of violating the country’s Cybercrime Act, despite the recent reform of the law, highlighting the continuing use of the law and defamation laws to target and harass journalists, and activists.

    “One journalist, known under the pen name Fejiro Oliver, has been behind bars since mid-September over charges of cyberbullying. On September 18, police detained Oliver, an investigative journalist and publisher of privately owned Secret Reporters news outlet, at his office in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, then flew him to Asaba, the capital of southern Delta State. Oliver’s real name is Tega Gobernadora.”

    “In August, Azuka Francisca Ogujiuba, publisher of the privately owned Media Room Hub news site, was arrested twice in Abuja for publishing a court injunction related to a disputed land sale. The first time, she was held for five hours; the second time, for three days. Police searched and retained her phone for five days.”

    “On August 11, she was released after interventions from friends, taking down the article, and writing an apology.”

    “On September 9, police in Ekiti State detained Sodeeq Atanda, a reporter with the privately owned Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), on allegations of cyberbullying, criminal defamation, conspiracy, blackmail, and malicious misrepresentation.”

    “Atanda was responding to a letter summoning him for questioning, following a complaint by a university vice-chancellor over FIJ’s allegations of sexual harassment. Atanda was reportedly detained for 11 hours, then freed without charge after multiple calls for his release. Police also reportedly invited FIJ founder Fisayo Soyombo for questioning on cyberbullying charges.”

    “According to the CPJ, at least 25 journalists faced prosecution under the Cybercrimes Act before the 2024 reforms. Five journalists have been prosecuted for cybercrime since the reforms. Five were harassed, but not formally charged, between March and May 2024.”

    “Ned Nwoko, senator representing Delta north, has renewed his call for the passage of the social media regulation bill, saying defamation has been weaponized in Nigeria’s online space. The proposed legislation sponsored by Nwoko passed for second reading on March 18 in the senate.”

    “The Federal Government also recently charged Sahara Reporters publisher and activist Omoyele Sowore alongside X and Facebook owners over Mr Sowore’s recent alleged ‘anti-Tinubu’ posts on the social media platforms.”

    “Two of the counts are brought under the Cybercrimes Act while the other three charges of criminal defamation, causing public fear and disturbance are brought under the Criminal Code Act.”

    “The suit dated 16th September,2025, was lodged at the Federal High Court in Abuja after Sowore allegedly refused to delete certain posts allegedly critical of President Tinubu. The charges were brought on behalf of the DSS and the Federal Government by the Director of Public Prosecutions at the Ministry of Justice.”

    “The DSS in May 2025 also filed a SLAPP lawsuit against Professor Pat Utomi, a former presidential candidate, accusing him of attempting to illegally usurp President Bola Tinubu’s executive powers by setting up a shadow government.”

    “In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the DSS alleged that Utomi’s actions posed a threat to national security and constitutional order.”

    “The 2007 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress was named as the sole defendant in the suit. DSS operatives in October 2024 also filed a SLAPP lawsuit against SERAP over allegations of an unauthorised office invasion.”

    “These cases illustrate the growing use of SLAPP lawsuits by the DSS and other security and law enforcement agencies in Nigeria to target, harass and intimidate Nigerians for the peaceful exercise of their human rights.”

    “We are concerned that SLAPP lawsuits have a chilling effect on the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and other fundamental human rights protected under the Nigerian Constitution and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “These cases illustrate the ongoing harassment, intimidation and misuse of laws and judicial processes in Nigeria to stifle the peaceful activities of journalists, activists, bloggers and CSOs and curtail the exercise of free expression in across the country.

    “These charges and lawsuits appear to be designed to intimidate and harass human rights defenders and constitute an unnecessary and disproportionate interference on the rights to freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly and access to information.”

    “We therefore call on the Nigerian authorities to immediately release all journalists, activists, bloggers and other Nigerians detained solely for the peaceful exercise of their human rights and withdraw bogus charges against them.

    “Nigerian authorities should withdraw the SLAPP lawsuit brought against journalists, activists, bloggers and civil society organizations including the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).”

    “To uphold their obligations under the Nigerian Constitution and human rights treaties to which the country is a state party, Nigerian authorities should urgently act to prevent further spurious defamation cases and SLAPP lawsuits being filed by security and law enforcement agencies that target journalists, activists, and CSOs.”

    “Nigerian authorities should decriminalize defamation in Nigerian laws and protect journalists, activists, bloggers and civil society organizations from SLAPP lawsuits and other abusive litigation aimed at curtailing the peaceful exercise of human rights in the country.”

    “Nigerian authorities must ensure that no person is prosecuted or held criminally liable for defamation for activities protected under the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights treaties to which the country is a state party.”

    “Nigerian authorities should enact laws to protect journalists, activists, bloggers, CSOs, critics and other individuals from legal harassment through defamation charges and SLAPP lawsuits.”

    “Nigerian authorities must ensure that defamation cases and SLAPP lawsuits are not used by businesses as a tool to undermine legitimate rights and freedoms of affected rights holders, civil society organizations and human rights defenders.”

    “We urge President Tinubu and his government to publicly call on Nigeria’s state governors, the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) to uphold and ensure full respect for the rights of everyone in the country, including journalists, bloggers, human rights defenders and activists.”

    “We call on President Tinubu and his government, the country’s 36 governors and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister to genuinely uphold human rights, press freedom, ensure access to information to all Nigerians, obey court judgments, and respect the rule of law.”

    “We urge the National Assembly to promptly and comprehensively review the Cybercrimes Act and other restrictive legislation, and revise them as appropriate to bring them into line with Nigeria’s international human rights obligations and commitments regarding human rights and media freedom.”

    “We urge the international community to hold Nigerian authorities to account for violations of human rights in the country, including by calling on the authorities at both the Federal and state levels to immediately and unconditionally release anyone detained solely for peacefully exercising their human rights.”

    The press conference was attended by senior members of the media, civil society groups and other stakeholders. The stakeholders and participants made commitments to work together to ensure the full and effective implementation of the recommendations by the Nigerian authorities.

    Those who attended the event included: Eze Anaba, President, NGE and Editor, Vanguard; Onuoha Ukeh, General Secretary, NGE and MD, The Sun; Richard Akinnola, Media Law Centre; Gbenga Adefaye, Provost, Nigerian Institute of Journalism; Dr Iyobosa Uwugiaren, Editor, This Day/NGE; Martins Oloja, former Editor-Chief, Guardian; and Ayo Makinde, Channels TV.

    Others who attended the event included: ⁠ Others included: Korede Ogunbunmi, deputy director, FRCN; James Oluyombo Tokode, Con Editor, Nation; Ikechukwu Amaechi, MD, The Niche; Tony Iyare, Fellow, NGE; Rose Moses, Editor, NGE; Juliet Bumah, Editor, New Telegraph; Ugonma Cokey, Deputy Director, VON; Ronke Raji, Controller News, Channels TV; and Ufuoma Egbamuno, News Manager, Cool/Wazobia/Nig. Info.

    Other stakeholders included: Paulyn Ugbodaga, Editor in Chief/CEO, News Ultra 360; Emeka Madunagu, MD/CEO, Metrostar; Joy Anibgugu, Editor, Daily Independent; Daniel Badru, Senior Correspondent, Guardian; Oluwatosin Odusola, News Editor, Eko FM; Ijeoma Popoola, Deputy Editor in Chief, NAN; and Gabriel Akinadewo, MD, Freedom Online.

    Others who attended the event included: ⁠Charles Kalu, General Manager, Peoples FM; Chima Obinna, Editor, This Day; Steve Nwosu, MD/EIC, Peoples FM/UTV Abuja; and Peter Ekele, Editor in Chief, The Cabal Newspaper; Iheanacho Nwosu, Editor, The Sun; Zebulon Agomuo, Editor, Business Day; Summer Shagari, Director News, Arise TV; Dotun Oladipo, Managing Editor, The Eagle Online; Niyi  Ojemakinde, COO, Peak Radio; and Godwin Ukaa, Deputy Director News, VON.

  • Court adjourns for final address in DSS’ N5.5b defamation suit against SERAP

    Court adjourns for final address in DSS’ N5.5b defamation suit against SERAP

    A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Maitama has adjourned till February 19, 2026, for the adoption of final written addresses in the N5.5billion defamation suit against a group, the Socio-economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).

    Justice Halilu Yusuf chose the date on Monday after the defendants concluded their defence after calling their witness.

    Listed with SERAP as defendants in the suit, marked: CV/4547/2024, is its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare.

    In the suit filed in the names of two officials of DSS – Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele – the claimants accused the defendants of making a false claim that John and Ogundele invaded SERAP’s Abuja office on September 9, 2024.

    At the commencement of proceedings on Monday, Oluwadare, who testified as the defendant’s witness, adopted his statement on oath and gave further information about what he knew in relation to the incident of September 9, 2024.

    Oluwadare said SERAP is a registered non-governmental organisation that champions advancing transparency, accountability, and social justice in the country.

    The witness, who was led in evidence by the defendants’ lawyer, Oluwatosin Adesioye, admitted that SERAP operates with funding from local and international donor agencies.

    Under cross-examination by the claimant’s lawyer, Oluwagbemileke Kehinde, the witness said he made the publication complained about based on the information he got from one Vivian Amadi, a Front Desk Officer and Receptionist in SERAP’s Abuja office.

    The witness admitted that he was not present in the office, but was called by one Vivian Amadi to inform him of the presence of the DSS officials in SERAP’s premises.

    Oluwadare was handed two documents, including the publication complained about by the claimant, and was asked to read out the first paragraph to the hearing of everyone in court.

    In the publication posted on the SERAP website, the witness raised an alarm, claiming that the  DSS had invaded SERAP’s Abuja office unlawfully, intimidating and harassing its staff, and calling on President Bola Tinubu to call the DSS officials to order.

    After reading, the witness admitted using the words – unlawful, intimidating, and harassing – in the publications, but disagreed that the words used in the publications are serious allegations against the two claimants.

    The witness admitted not consulting with the DSS before making the publications, adding that while they were in SERAP’s office, the two DSS officials did not brandish any weapon.

    He also confirmed that throughout their presence, the two DSS officials did not seize or damage any property, nor was any staff of SERAP physically assaulted by the security agents.

    Oluwadare admitted that the DSS officials did not break down any door to gain entry into SERAP’s office.

    He said he was told that the first claimant (Sarah John) was making calls and asking other officials of the DSS not to come inside the SERAP office.

    The witness claimed to have the CCTV footage of the DSS officials’ entrance into the SERAP’s office.

    In the suit, the claimants stated, among others, that the alleged false claim by SERAP has negatively impacted their reputation and that of the two officials involved.

    They also stated, in their statement of claim, that, in line with its practice of engaging with officials of non-governmental organisations operating in the FCT to establish a relationship with their new leadership, it directed the two officials – John and Ogunleye – to visit SERAP’s office and invite its new leadership for a familiarisation meeting.

    The claimants added that in carrying out the directive, John and Ogunleye paid a friendly visit to SERAP’s office at 18 Bamako Street, Wuse Zone 1, Abuja on September 9 and met with one Ruth, who upon being informed about the purpose of the visit, claimed that none of SERAP’s management staff was in the country and advised that a formal letter of invitation be written by the DSS.

    John and Ogundele, who claimed that their interactions with Ruth were recorded, said that before they immediately exited SERAP’s office, Ruth promised to inform her organisation’s management about the visit and volunteered a phone number – 08160537202.

    They said it was surprising that, shortly after their visit, SERAP posted on its X (Twitter) handle: @SERAPNigeria, that officers of the DSS are presently unlawfully occupying its office.

    The claimant added that “on the same day, the defendants also published a statement on SERAP’s website, which was widely reported by several media outfits, falsely alleging that some officers from the DSS, described as “a fall, large, dark-skinned woman” and “a slim, dark skinned man,” invaded their Abuja office and interrogated the staff of the first defendant (SERAP).

    John and Ogundele stated that “due to the false statements published by the defendants, the DSS has been ridiculed and criticised by international agencies such as Amnesty International and prominent members of the Nigerian society, such as Femi Falana (SAN).

    “Due to the false statements published by the defendants, members of the public and the international community formed the opinion that the Federal Government is using the DSS to harass the defendants.”

    They added that the defendants’ statements caused harm to the claimants’ reputation because the staff and management of the DSS have formed the opinion that the claimants did not follow orders and carried out an unsanctioned operation, and are therefore incompetent and unprofessional.

    The claimants are therefore praying the court for the following reliefs:

    *An order directing the defendants to tender an apology to the claimants via the first defendant’s (SERAP’s) website, X (twitter) handle, two national daily newspapers (Punch and Vanguard) and two national news television stations (Arise Television and Channels Television) for falsely accusing the claimants of unlawfully invading the first defendant’s office and interrogating the first defendant’s staff.

    *An order directing the defendants to pay the claimants the sum of N5billion as damages for the libellous statements published about the claimants.

    *Interest on the sum of N5b at the rate of 10 percent per annum from the date of judgment until the judgment sum is realised or liquidated.

    *AN order directing the defendants to pay the claimants the sum of N50million as costs of this action.

  • Group berates SERAP over planned suit against NASS leaders

    Group berates SERAP over planned suit against NASS leaders

    The Hadejia/Auyo/Kafin-Hausa Coalition for Development (HAKCOD) in Jigawa State has faulted the decision of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to institute legal action against the leadership of the National Assembly over what it described as “baseless and politically motivated allegations” against the member representing Hadejia/Auyo/Kafin-Hausa Federal Constituency, Hon. Usman Kamfani Auyo.

    In a  statement by its Chairman, Comrade Abubakar Maje Ahmed,  the group accused SERAP of “acting hastily on falsehoods and political propaganda” peddled by opponents of the lawmaker.

    HAKCOD described the planned lawsuit as “a reckless attempt to undermine the integrity of an elected representative and distract him from his legislative responsibilities.”

    “The decision by SERAP to proceed with legal action based on unfounded claims is not only unjust but also a direct insult to the collective integrity of the people of Hadejia, Auyo, and Kafin-Hausa.

    “Hon. Usman Kamfani Auyo has been an exemplary representative, focusing on youth empowerment, education, and infrastructural development across the constituency. It is unfortunate that some political actors have resorted to distortion and blackmail to achieve their selfish aims.”

    According to the group, the controversy originated in August 2025, following a media interaction in which Hon. Auyo allegedly stated that lawmakers were required to make payments before sponsoring bills in the National Assembly — a claim which HAKCOD insists was “deliberately twisted” by political detractors.

    It clarified that the lawmaker merely explained that some legislators voluntarily spend personal funds — sometimes up to ₦3 million — to engage consultants who assist in preparing draft bills or motions before they are presented, emphasising that such expenses were not bribes or mandatory fees.

    “At no point did Hon. Usman Auyo suggest that payments are made to facilitate legislative processes. What he described was a common professional practice across many parliaments, where lawmakers hire experts to refine their legislative proposals,” the statement added.

    HAKCOD further alleged that some opposition figures within Jigawa State seized the opportunity to “feed SERAP with misleading narratives,” prompting the organization to embark on a misguided legal crusade.

    Read Also: SERAP seeks disclosure of new INEC chairman selection process

    “We urge SERAP, as an organization known for promoting transparency and accountability, to cross-check its facts before taking actions capable of damaging reputations or undermining public trust in democratic institutions,” HAKCOD said.

    The coalition also called on the National Assembly leadership and the general public to disregard what it termed “sensationalized claims,” insisting that Hon. Auyo remains committed to credible representation and good governance.

    HAKCOD concluded by urging civil society groups to exercise due diligence and maintain objectivity in their advocacy, warning that “politically influenced actions” could erode citizens’ confidence in democratic accountability initiatives.

    “We stand firmly by our representative. Any attempt to malign him is an attack on the will and dignity of our people,” the statement concluded.

  • Court shifts DSS N5.5bn defamation suit against SERAP over lawyer’s absence

    Court shifts DSS N5.5bn defamation suit against SERAP over lawyer’s absence

    A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja has shifted hearing in a N5.5 billion defamation suit instituted against the Socio-economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) by two aggrieved operatives of the Department of the State Service DSS to November 12.

    Justice Halilu Yusuf on Thursday, shifted hearing in the suit following the absence of SERAP’s lawyer, Ebun Adegboruwa, SAN, in court.

    The two DSS operatives, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, had filed the action against SERAP on the ground that the organization defamed them with baseless accusations in media publications. 

    Specifically, the two claimants alleged that SERAP defamed with allegations that they unlawfully invaded their office, thereby putting their reputation, as law abiding security operatives, in jeopardy.

    They pleaded with the court to order SERAP to pay them N5.5Bn as compensation for damages they suffered.

    The two claimants also applied to the judge to issue order of perpetual injunction against SERAP restraining it from further defaming them.

    Read Also: DSS warns against dismissed staff

    However, at Thursday’s proceeding, SERAP’s lawyer, Ebun Adegboruwa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, wrote a letter to the court informing it that he would not be able to attend the proceedings.

    The senior lawyer claimed that he had a matter at the Court of Appeal in Lagos and pleaded for an adjournment till November 12.

    Counsel to the claimant, Akinlolu Kehinde SAN admitted receiving the letter and the apology and did not oppose the request for an adjournment.

    Justice Halilu subsequently fixed November 12 for SERAP to defend itself in the defamation suit.

  • SERAP seeks reversal of passport fees increament

    SERAP seeks reversal of passport fees increament

    Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap to immediately reverse the recent hike in international passports fees.

    SERAP described as “arbitrary, unlawful, unjustified, and excessive passport fees of between N100,000 and N200,000.”

    “We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government, the Minister and Comptroller General to comply with our request in the public interest.”

    The NIS last week announced that from September 1, 2025, applications made within Nigeria will attract new fees of N100,000 for the 32-page, five-year validity passport and N200,000 for the 64-page, 10-year validity passport.

    The organisation noted that the unreasonable price increase came barely a year after a similar increase on September 1, 2024.

    Read Also: SERAP wants mandatory e-transfer of polls’ results

    In the letter dated August 30, 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “the unlawfully high fees amount to a discriminatory denial of access to a passport to millions of socially and economically vulnerable Nigerians and unlawful restrictions of their other citizenship rights.”

     SERAP said, “millions of disadvantaged Nigerians cannot realistically afford to pay the increased fees. These Nigerians should not be forced to spend their limited and grossly inadequate income to pay the increased fees instead of spending it on their basic living needs.”

    According to SERAP, “The Minister of Interior and the Comptroller General of the NIS ought to comply with the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international human rights obligations in the exercise of their constitutional and statutory duties.”

    The letter further read in part: “The increased fees will hit hardest those at the bottom of the economy. The Minister of Interior and the Comptroller General of the NIS have a legal responsibility to ensure an appropriate balance between the imposition of excessive passport fees on citizens and the safeguarding of citizens’ rights.

    “Nigerians who cannot afford to pay the excessive fees would be denied the effective enjoyment of their citizenship rights conferred by the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and human rights treaties to which the country is a state party.

    “The unreasonable and disproportionate increase in passport fees is incompatible with the provisions of chapters 2 and 4 of the Nigerian Constitution covering fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy and fundamental rights.

    “The excessive fees would also result in disproportionate financial burdens on poor Nigerians. The Minister of Interior and the Comptroller General of the NIS failed to assess the effects of the excessive fees in light of the poor financial conditions of millions of Nigerians and the growing economic challenges in the country.

    “The Minister of Interior and the Comptroller General of the NIS acted unlawfully when they arbitrarily increased the passport fees. The Minister of Interior and the Comptroller General of the NIS have rendered nugatory Nigerians’ fundamental rights by impermissibly and unlawfully increasing the passport fees.

    “The unlawful increase in passport fees at a time the country is facing economic and financial crises would contribute further to the impoverishment of the population.

    “The increased fees would also violate Nigerians’ right to travel or leave their country including the right to obtain the necessary travel documents. The Minister of Interior and the Comptroller General of the NIS have failed to sufficiently justify the increased fees.

    “The increase is discriminatory as it would undermine the effective enjoyment of citizens’ fundamental rights as guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to which Nigeria is a state party.

    “According to our information, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on Thursday 28 August 2025 announced an upward review of Nigerian Standard Passport fees with effect from September 1, 2025.

    “The NIS stated that in the new rates, applications made in Nigeria, which cost N50,000 for a 32-page booklet with five-year validity, will now cost N100,000 for the same page and validity period. It also stated that a 64-page passport booklet with 10 years validity will now cost N200,000 from N100,000.

    “The increase in passport fees is set to take effect on September 1, 2025. SERAP notes that the NIS in September 2024 also increased the cost of a 32-page passport booklet with a five-year validity from N35,000 to N50,000. It also increased the 64-page passport booklet with a 10-year validity from N70,000 to N100,000.” the organisation stated.

  • SERAP wants mandatory e-transfer of polls’ results

    SERAP wants mandatory e-transfer of polls’ results

    The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to promptly set up a presidential panel of enquiry to investigate the unlawful annulment of the June 12, 1993, elections.

     SERAP also asked the President to direct  Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) to bring to justice anyone responsible for the unlawful annulment of the polls.

      Fagbemi, according to the group, should urgently draft and send to the National Assembly an Executive bill to amend the Electoral Act 2022  to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory.

    The bill, said SERAP, should also have a provision allowing every voter access to election documents.

    Besides, SERAP  wants the President  “to direct Mr Fagbemi to immediately discontinue all the cases of Nigerians arrested, detained and facing unfair prosecutions solely for peacefully exercising their human rights, including participating in peaceful protests.”

    These demands are contained in a letter to the President by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare dated 14 June 2025.

    READ ALSO; Tinubu’s 2027 landscape: Reform, resistance and the road ahead

      Tinubu  had in his Democracy Day speech at the National Assembly last week expressed commitment “to rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12; freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.”

     The group said it would consider legal actions against the President if he fails to respond to the demands.

    The letter by SERAP partly reads: “These expressed commitments won’t be enough unless your government demonstrates the political will to combat impunity for the annulment of the June 12 elections and advance Nigerians’ democratic freedoms 

      “No one is above the law, and there is no statute of limitations for violations of democratic freedoms. The ‘ideals of June 12’ cannot be achieved, and real democracy cannot flourish in Nigeria without electoral accountability, democratic and human rights reforms and strict obedience to the rule of law.

      “Amending the Electoral Act to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory and allow access of every voter to the results would ensure free, fair and transparent elections and improve public confidence in the electoral process.

    “Impunity for the annulment of June 12 elections has continued to encourage politicians to undermine the country’s elections and deny Nigerians their right to political participation and other human rights.

    “Addressing impunity for the unlawful annulment of the June 12 elections and ensuring electoral and human rights reforms would improve Nigeria’s electoral process and citizens’ right to participate in their government in free, fair and transparent elections.”

    “We would therefore be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”

    “Our requests are brought in the public interest, and in keeping with your expressed commitment on Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], and the country’s international human rights obligations.”

    “SERAP notes that section 74(1) of the Electoral Act only grants access to election documents to ‘parties to an election petition’. SERAP believes that the provision should be amended to allow every voter to access election documents to promote a free, fair and transparent election.”

    “The right to access election documents should give rise to claims under section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution and the Freedom of Information Act.”

    “SERAP notes and welcomes your expressed commitment made in your speech in commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, including to ‘rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12; freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.’”

    “SERAP also notes and welcomes your commitment ‘to continue to do more to make real the dream of Nigeria’s political and economic democracy. We must be vigilant in expanding the political space. We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression and rights over might.’”

    “SERAP also welcomes your call to the National Assembly to ‘be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties.’”

    “SERAP is concerned that anti-freedom of expression laws such as the provisions of the criminal defamation and injurious falsehood provisions of the Criminal Code and Penal Code continue to be used to target, arrest, detain and unfairly prosecute journalists, activists, critics and other Nigerians peacefully expressing their views.”

    “SERAP is also concerned about the use and potential chilling effect of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) law enforcement and security agencies and politicians to intimidate and harass journalists, activists, critics and other Nigerians simply for the peaceful exercise of their human rights.”

    “The combined effect of your expressed commitment, the Nigerian Constitution, your oath of office, and the country’s international human rights obligations is the requirement for your government to combat the lingering impunity for the annulment of the June 12 elections, and advance the democratic freedoms and human rights of Nigerians.”

  • Alleged N5.5b suit: DSS faults SERAP’s claim

    Alleged N5.5b suit: DSS faults SERAP’s claim

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has faulted a claim by the Socio-Economic and Accountability Project (SERAP) that officials of the secret police invaded the organisation’s Abuja office.

    The DSS said the allegation portrayed its personnel in a bad light, like a government agency that engages in illegal operations.

    A senior official of the DSS, John Afolabi, said this while testifying yesterday before a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama at the resumed hearing in the suit filed by two personnel of the secret police – Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye.

    The suit, filed for the DSS officials by their lawyer, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), has SERAP and its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, as defendants.

    John and Ogunleye are claiming, among others, N5 billion in damages and N50 million as cost of the suit, and are demanding a public apology to be published in several media platforms.

    Afolabi, who featured yesterday as the second claimants’ witness, adopted his written statement on oath as his evidence in the case and urged the court to grant the reliefs sought by the claimants.

    Under cross-examination by lawyer to SERAP, Devine Oguru, the witness said contrary to the impression created by the report put out by SERAP, John and Ogunleye paid a routine visitation to the organisation’s office but did not engage in any invasion.

    Afolabi said he was not present when the DSS officials visited SERAP’s office on September 9, 2024, but got to know about the incident through the media and investigation he conducted.

    He said: “I was not in SERAP’s office on September 9, 2024 when the claimants visited there. I have never been there (SERAP’s office). Since I was not there, I cannot tell what happened there on that day.

    “But the information on the social media and regular media about the allegations levelled against the claimants by the defendants and my investigation of the matter, gave me full insight into what transpired in SERAP’s office that day,” the witness said.

    Afolabi, who described himself as a Director in the Investigation Directorate of the DSS, said the claimants and himself are competent, disciplined and professional officers of the outfit.

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    He added that they remained disciplined, competent and professional in the discharge of their duties.

    The witness said not only did the allegations by SERAP cast the claimants in a bad light but their employer (the DSS) got embarrassed by the allegations because of people’s comments, and consequently ordered investigation into the conduct of the officers.

    According to the witness, as a result of the defendant’s false allegations, the claimants are currently the subject of an ongoing investigation by the DSS.

    Afolabi said John and Ogunleye had been made to make statements, subjected to interrogations, faced a disciplinary panel and now suspended from the service pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

    Under cross-examination by Oluwadare’s counsel, Oluwatosin Adesioye, the witness said the claimants, who are attached to the NGOs Table within the Investigation Directorate of the DSS, acted under the authority of their supervisor to embark on the visitation to SERAP’s office on September 9, 2024.

    Justice Yusuf Halilu adjourned till June 30 for the commencement of defence.

  • SERAP threatens action over bill to regulate bloggers

    SERAP threatens action over bill to regulate bloggers

    Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen  “to  withdraw the repressive bill for an act to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which seeks to regulate the activities of bloggers operating within the country.

    SERAP urged Akpabio and  Tajudeen to ensure that any amendment to the Nigeria Data Protection Act promotes and protects the rights of bloggers and other journalists and does not undermine the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.

    SERAP also urged them “to end the imposition of unnecessary restrictions on the rights of Nigerians online and Internet-based content.”

    There is currently a bill titled “A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to Mandate the Establishment of Physical Offices within the Territorial Boundaries of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by Social Media Platforms and for Related Matters” (the “bill”).

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    The bill among others seeks to regulate bloggers including by requiring all bloggers to register local offices and join recognised national association for bloggers. The bill has passed its first and second reading in the Senate.

    The request was contained in a letter dated April 12, 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare.

    The organisation said: “This bill is a blatant attempt to bring back and fast-track the obnoxious and widely rejected social media bill by the back-door.”

    SERAP said, “If passed, the bill would also be used to ban major social media platforms—including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and independent bloggers if they ‘continuously fail to establish/register and maintain physical offices in Nigeria for a period of 30 days.’”

    The letter, read in part: “Lawmakers should not become arbiters of truth in the public and political domain. Regulating the activities of bloggers and forcing them to

  • Judge okays hearing of N5b defamation suit by DSS against SERAP

    Judge okays hearing of N5b defamation suit by DSS against SERAP

    A judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Yusuf Halilu, has fixed March 21 to hear a defamation suit filed by two officers of the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).

    Last October, the DSS officers filed the suit against SERAP after the organisation failed to apologise to them over alleged unlawful invasion of its Abuja office a month earlier.

    Among the reliefs the DSS officers are seeking in the N5 billion in damages include an apology published on SERAP’s website, the social media, and in national newspapers and TV stations.

    The secret police officers also asked SERAP to pay N50 million for legal costs and 10 per cent annual interest on the N5 billion until the payment is made in full.

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    When the matter came up for a definitive hearing yesterday, SERAP’s legal team raised several interlocutory applications and objections.

    The objections centred on the court’s jurisdiction, that they were not properly served and that the DSS officials lacked legal standing to sue since they were affiliated with the agency.

    Counsel to second defendant, Hannah Anyowale, prayed the court to discountenance the counter-affidavit filed by the plaintiff and grant their application to strike out the matter.

    Also, Divine Oguru, who appeared for SERAP (the first defendant), adopted the submissions of the second defendant.

  • SERAP’s suit challenging National Assembly’s powers on own budget dismissed

    SERAP’s suit challenging National Assembly’s powers on own budget dismissed

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit by the Incorporated Trustees of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) challenging the National Assembly’s powers to amend its budget in the 2024 Appropriation Act.

    Justice James Kolawole Omotosho ruled that SERAP lacked the locus standi to institute the suit.

    The judge upheld the argument of Dr. Sheriff Abiodun Adesanya, who represented the first respondent (the Senate President), that the interest of SERAP and that of the 20 concerned citizens it represented, was no greater than that of the general public.  Justice Omotosho agreed with Dr. Adesanya (of Abiodun Adesanya & Co) that the plaintiff’s claims were without merit. He dismissed the case in its entirety.

    SERAP, through Andrew Nwankwo of Eko Akete Chambers, had contended that the National Assembly’s unilateral increase of its budget allocation from N197 billion to N344 billion contravened Section 81 of the Constitution, the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, and democratic principles, particularly the separation of powers.

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    It sought a declaration that the budgetary increase was unconstitutional and requested orders compelling the National Assembly to adhere to constitutional procedures by re-presenting any amended appropriation bills to the President for approval before enactment.

    But the lawmakers opposed SERAP’s argument.

    Apart from arguing that the plaintiffs had no locus standi to initiate the suit, Dr. Adesanya also defended the procedural validity of the National Assembly’s budgetary actions, saying SERAP failed to show that the lawmakers’ action was procedurally irregular.

    The lawyer said: “Apart from speculative claims by the plaintiffs that the altered appropriation bill was not forwarded to the President after amendment by the National Assembly, there is no evidence (assuming such alteration necessitated representation to the President) to support this assertion.

    “There is no provision in the Constitution that stipulates that the National Assembly cannot amend the budget estimate and enact the same into law without consulting the President on the amendment.”