The concept of justice as “three-way traffic” — balancing individual rights, societal values, and legal integrity — was powerfully demonstrated in Plateau State following the reinstatement of over 280 unlawfully dismissed staff of Plateau State Polytechnic and Plateau State College of Education.
The reinstatement came after the National Industrial Court, sitting in Jos and presided over by Justice Ibrahim Galadima, ruled in favour of the affected staff in two separate suits (NICN/JOS/09/2024 and NICN/JOS/08/2024). The court declared that the Plateau State Governor lacked the legal authority to terminate their appointments, deeming the dismissals unlawful, null, and void.
What sets this case apart is the rare and commendable public compliance by the state government. Both institutions issued formal public notices directing the reinstated staff to resume duties and present documents for re-documentation, with specified dates and procedures.
The Polytechnic’s notice directed all reinstated employees to report to the registrar’s office between May 28–30, while the College of Education instructed staff to immediately return to work and attend a meeting scheduled for May 28.
Legal analysts and judiciary observers praised the Plateau State Government for not only respecting the court’s ruling but also doing so with a spirit devoid of hostility or delay. This, they say, reinforces public confidence in the justice system, especially in labour matters.
Observers highlighted the decision’s impact, noting that the government had the right to appeal but chose instead to uphold the rule of law. This ensured swift justice for affected workers — a rare outcome in public sector labour disputes.
The judgment and the government’s response drew attention to past remarks by legal luminaries like former Chief Justice Onnoghen and retired Industrial Court President Justice Adejumo, both of whom stressed the importance of enforcing court orders and protecting workers’ rights.
Ultimately, the swift judgment, public compliance, and the return of the workers signal a maturing democratic and judicial culture. It also serves as a beacon of hope that justice is possible — and enforceable — even against state powers.
