Justice Benedict Kanyip of National Industrial Court, Abuja, on Tuesday, withdrew from separate suits filed by 62 recently sacked staff of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Justice Kanyip, who is also the court President, recused himself from the cases following the announcement of a lawyer’s name in the CBN’s legal who he said was his in-law.
In one of the originating summons marked: NICN/ABJ/26x/2024 filed on August 22 by a team of lawyers led by Ola Olanipekun, (SAN), the staff urged the court to nullify the termination letters issued to them by CBN.
They sought a declaration that the letter titled: “Re-ORGANISATION,” dated May 23 issued by the CBN’s Director, Human Resources Department contravened provisions of the CBN Act 2007.
The plaintiffs argued that the action also contravened the bank’s Human Resource Policies and Procedure Manual (HRPPM) and therefore was arbitrary, unlawful, null and void.
They sought a declaration that their contract of employment with the CBN remained valid till date.
During the hearing of the first suit, Olanipekun announced his appearance alongside other lawyers in his company.
He told the court that the matter was slated for mention.
Obafemi Agaba of Jackson, Etti, and Edu & Co while announcing appearance for CBN, said a consortium of law firms, including D.D. Dodo (SAN) & Co law firm would represent the bank in the case.
Then Justice Kanyip made observation that Mr. Damian Dodo (SAN) is his in-law.
The judge, who said he was not comfortable to continue with the matter, said the case, would be reassigned to another judge for adjudication.
He, however, sought the view of counsel to the claimant.
Olanipekun, in his response, said they do not have any doubt about the impartiality of the court at discharging its judicial functions.
Agaba equally expressed confidence in the court.
He, however, said that justice must not only be done in the court but must have been seen to have been done.
