The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has appealed the ₦100 million defamation judgment awarded against it in favour of the Department of State Services (DSS), while also seeking a stay of execution of the ruling.

The rights organisation filed its notice of appeal shortly after the court delivered judgment in the defamation suit, arguing that the decision should be reviewed by a higher court.

SERAP also asked the court to halt the enforcement of the judgment pending the determination of the appeal, insisting that proceeding with execution could cause serious consequences before the appellate court delivers its decision.

The legal dispute followed allegations and public statements linked to the DSS, which the security agency claimed were defamatory and damaging to its reputation.

However, SERAP maintained that its actions and statements were made in the public interest and within the framework of accountability, transparency and citizens’ rights.

The organisation argued that the appeal raises important constitutional and legal questions concerning freedom of expression, civic advocacy and the role of public institutions in a democratic society.

The development has continued to attract reactions from legal analysts, civil society groups and public affairs commentators, many of whom say the case could have broader implications for civic activism and public accountability in Nigeria.

The appeal process is expected to determine whether the original judgment will stand or be overturned by the appellate court.