An Amnesty International lawyer has publicly criticized the recent N100 million defamation judgment handed to the Nigerian anti‑corruption group SERAP.
The court found SERAP liable for defamation and awarded a punitive sum of N100 million to the plaintiff. The decision has sparked debate over the fairness of the ruling and the broader implications for civil society organisations in Nigeria.
In his criticism, the lawyer faulted the judgment for what he described as an over‑reach by the court, arguing that the punitive damages were disproportionate and could stifle legitimate investigative work.
He also recalled how SERAP had previously defended former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairman Nuhu Ribadu against persecution, highlighting the group’s long‑standing role in supporting whistleblowers and anti‑corruption activists.
Ribadu, who served as EFCC chairman from 2007 to 2015, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s fight against corruption. SERAP, a Nigerian civil society organisation, has been active in exposing corruption and advocating for transparency in public office.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>