The National Industrial Court has ordered the reinstatement of a group of Plateau State civil servants whose appointments were previously terminated, declaring the action unlawful, illegal, unjust, and unfair.
The court directed the Plateau State Government to allow the affected employees to resume their duties in line with their respective letters of employment.
It also ordered that the workers be reinstated in accordance with an earlier directive issued by the state governor regarding their return to work.
In a judgment delivered on Tuesday, the court held that the termination of the affected workers, employed across various ministries, departments, and parastatals of the Plateau State Government, did not comply with due process and was therefore invalid.
The ruling was welcomed by the affected civil servants and their supporters, who described it as a victory for justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
Many of the workers had faced years of uncertainty following the termination of their appointments and had pursued legal action, maintaining that their disengagement was unjustified.
Legal observers noted that the judgment reinforces the principle that public institutions must adhere to due process and established regulations in employment and labour-related matters.
Reacting to the decision, supporters of the affected workers expressed optimism that the state government would fully comply with the court’s directive and facilitate the immediate resumption of the employees.
The development is being regarded as a significant milestone in the workers’ quest for justice and a reaffirmation of confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system.
As celebrations continued among the reinstated workers and their families, attention shifted to the implementation of the court’s judgment and the restoration of the affected employees to their respective positions.