CSOs demand release of DSS/SERAP judgement, warn against shrinking civic space

More than 50 civil society organisations have called for the immediate release of the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the reported defamation judgment secured by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), warning that delays threaten judicial transparency and constitutional rights. In a joint statement dated […]

More than 50 civil society organisations have called for the immediate release of the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the reported defamation judgment secured by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), warning that delays threaten judicial transparency and constitutional rights.

In a joint statement dated May 11, the groups expressed concern over what they called widespread public reactions to the judgment despite reports that the full text and CTC were yet to be publicly available.

The organisations said the situation raises serious concerns about procedural fairness, due process and public confidence in the judiciary.

They said timely access to judgments is central to fair hearing, noting that without the judgment, affected parties may be unable to properly assess legal options, pursue appeals or engage responsibly in public discourse.

Citing Sections 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as international human rights provisions, the groups stressed that judicial transparency, freedom of expression and access to justice are essential pillars of democracy.

“Delays in making judgments or Certified True Copies available in matters of significant constitutional and public importance risk undermining the right to fair hearing and appeal, transparency in judicial administration, and public confidence in the courts,” they said.

The coalition also cautioned against what it described as the growing use of defamation suits and coercive legal measures against anti-corruption advocacy and civic engagement.

They urged Nigerian institutions to protect civic space, uphold constitutional safeguards and ensure that judicial processes remain transparent, accountable and accessible to the public.