By Gabriella Ogbu
A group of 33 former employees of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has filed a lawsuit against the institution at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), in Abuja, challenging their dismissal in a mass termination last year.
In an originating summons filed on July 4, 2024, the claimants, including Stephen Gana, Kabiru Idris, Benedict Agbo, Peter Adeyemi, John Yisa, and Eleanor Ihua, allege that their constitutional right to a fair hearing was violated before and after their termination.
They argue that the CBN breached Nigerian labor laws, its internal policies, and their contractual rights.
Represented by Okwudili Abanum, the claimants contend that their termination, communicated via letters titled “Reorganizational and Human Capital Restructuring” on April 5, 2024, was unlawful.
They assert that the process violated the CBN’s Human Resources Policies and Procedures Manual and Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees fair hearing.
The lawsuit seeks a declaration that their dismissal is null and void, a restraining order preventing future terminations without due process, and reinstatement with full salaries and benefits.
The claimants are also demanding N30 billion in general damages for psychological distress and reputational harm, along with N500 million for legal costs.
During the initial hearing on November 20, 2024, presiding Judge O. A. Osaghae urged both parties to consider an amicable resolution, in line with Section 20 of the Nigerian Industrial Court Act, 2006.
Meanwhile, the CBN, represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Inam Wilson, filed a preliminary objection on November 4, 2024.
The court has adjourned the case to January 29, 2025, for a hearing on the objection.
The lawsuit follows the CBN’s termination of nearly 1,000 employees between March and May 2024.
While the bank cited “reorganisation and human capital restructuring,” some affected staff reported receiving severance packages as low as N5,000, while others alleged that their gratuities were deducted to offset outstanding loans.
On December 4, 2024, the CBN defended its actions, stating that its “early exit package” was voluntary and that no adverse consequences would be faced by eligible staff.