The National Industrial Court in Awka has voided the dismissal of a teacher, W.G. Onoriose from the Federal Civil Service and ordered his immediate reinstatement to his position before dismissal in October 2012.
Contrary to the claims of due process by the Ministry of Education, Onoriose argued that his suspension and dismissal in 2012 violated service rules on fair hearings.
After listening to all sides, Justice John Targema held that while employers can dismiss staff for misconduct without criminal conviction, the Minister failed to follow Public Service Rules before disciplining Onoriose, thereby breaching the teacher’s rights.
The judge directed the Civil Service Commission and Education Minister to reinstate Onoriose to his rightful position per his seniority, with salaries and benefits for the dismissal period.