Former staff members of the Central Bank of Nigeria who were laid off in 2024 have taken the bank to the National Industrial Court of Nigeria in Abuja, seeking justice for what they describe as an unfair dismissal process.
In a class-action suit filed on July 4, 2024, the 33 claimants, represented by Okwudili Abanum, allege that their constitutional right to fair hearing was denied both before and after their employment was terminated.
They argue that the CBN violated its internal policies, Nigerian labour laws, and their contractual rights.
The claimants were dismissed on April 5, 2024, through letters titled “Reorganisational and Human Capital Restructuring”. They claim the process was arbitrary, illegal, and unconstitutional.
The claimants are asking the court to declare their dismissal null and void, issue a restraining order to prevent further terminations without proper procedures, reinstate them with all outstanding salaries and benefits paid, and award N30 billion in damages for psychological distress and hardship. They are also requesting an additional N500 million to cover the cost of the lawsuit.
Citing Article 16.4.1 of the CBN’s Human Resources Policies and Procedures Manual (HRPPM), they argue that staff consultations and fair procedures were ignored. “We were given only three days to vacate our positions and hand over official property,” one claimant lamented.
At the first court hearing on November 20, 2024, Justice O. A. Osaghae encouraged both parties to attempt an amicable resolution. “I urge parties to explore settlement options pursuant to section 20 of the NICA 2006,” the judge said.
However, the CBN, represented by senior lawyer Inam Wilson, filed a preliminary objection to the suit, which is set for hearing on January 29, 2025.
The CBN laid off about 1,000 staff in 2024 in four batches between March and May, citing “reorganisation and human capital restructuring.” While the bank claimed the exit package was voluntary, some affected staff reported receiving severance pay as low as N5,000. Others alleged their gratuities were absorbed to settle outstanding loans.
The claimants argue the layoffs violated the CBN Act, which requires board approval for major employment decisions. As the legal battle unfolds, the affected staff hope for a fair resolution to what they describe as a deeply distressing experience.
