The National Industrial Court has ruled in favour of a group of Plateau State civil servants whose appointments were previously terminated, declaring the action unlawful, illegal, unjust, and unfair.
In its judgment delivered today, the court held that the termination of the affected workers employed across various ministries, departments, and parastatals of the Plateau State Government did not follow due process and was therefore invalid.
The court consequently ordered the Plateau State Government to allow the affected employees to resume their duties in line with their respective letters of employment. The court also directed that the workers be reinstated in accordance with the earlier directive issued by the Governor regarding their return to work.
The judgment has been widely welcomed by the affected civil servants and their supporters, who described the ruling as a victory for justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
Many of the workers had endured years of uncertainty following the termination of their appointments and had consistently sought legal redress, insisting that their disengagement was unjustified.
Legal observers say the judgment reinforces the principle that public institutions must adhere to due process and established regulations in matters relating to employment and labour relations.
Reacting to the ruling, supporters of the affected workers expressed optimism that the government would comply fully with the court’s directive and facilitate the immediate resumption of the employees.
The development is being viewed as a significant milestone in the quest for justice for the affected civil servants and a reaffirmation of confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system.
As celebrations continue among the reinstated workers and their families, attention now shifts to the implementation of the court’s judgment and the restoration of the affected employees to their respective positions.
The ruling has once again underscored the role of the judiciary as a vital institution for the protection of workers’ rights and the promotion of justice in society.