Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) employees, dismissed during a mass layoff in 2024, have filed a lawsuit against the bank at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) in Abuja. The aggrieved staff are challenging the legality of their termination and seeking ₦30 billion in damages, among other reliefs.
The plaintiffs, 33 former employees represented by Okwudili Abanum, argue that their dismissals violated internal policies, Nigerian labor laws, and their constitutional right to a fair hearing. The lawsuit stems from termination letters issued on April 5, 2024, citing “Reorganizational and Human Capital Restructuring.” The claimants contend that these letters were arbitrary, illegal, and unconstitutional.
The suit highlights the alleged disregard for Article 16.4.1 of the CBN Human Resources Policies and Procedures Manual (HRPPM), which mandates consultation with the Joint Consultative Council and adherence to fair procedures before any adverse employment action. The dismissed staff assert they were given just three days to vacate their positions and hand over official property, without prior consultation or due process.
The claimants are asking the court:
- Declare their termination null and void.
- Issue a restraining order preventing the CBN from dismissing them without following proper procedures.
- Reinstate them with full salaries and benefits from the date of termination.
- Award ₦30 billion in damages for psychological distress, hardship, and reputational harm.
- Award an additional ₦500 million to cover the cost of the suit.
During the initial hearing on November 20, 2024, presiding judge Justice O.A. Osaghae encouraged both parties to seek an amicable resolution, referencing Section 20 of the NIC Act of 2006. However, the CBN, represented by lead counsel Inam Wilson, has filed a preliminary objection to the suit. The court has scheduled January 29, 2025, for a hearing on the objection.
The mass layoffs, carried out in four batches between March and May 2024, affected around 1,000 employees. While the CBN attributed the dismissals to reorganization, the claimants allege the process lacked board approval, as required by the CBN Act. Some dismissed staff reported receiving severance packages as low as ₦5,000, while others claimed their gratuities were absorbed to offset outstanding loans.
In a December 4, 2024 statement, the CBN defended its actions, stating that the early exit packages were voluntary and carried no negative repercussions for eligible staff.
The case underscores ongoing tensions over the bank’s restructuring efforts and the rights of its former employees.
