JAMB Deputy Director Sues Board for ₦150 Million Over Alleged Wrongful Dismissal
The claimant further seeks a declaration that his dismissal without the consideration of the Committee's Report by the defendant's board is unlawful, illegal, and null. He requests an order setting aside his dismissal and reinstating him to his position with full entitlements, benefits, and perks.
AKACHI NOEL 
Mr. Yisa Usman, a Deputy Director with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has filed a lawsuit against JAMB for ₦150 million over his alleged unlawful dismissal. The suit, marked NICN/ABJ/266/2023, was filed at the National Industrial Court, Abuja, on September 29, 2023.
In the suit, Usman seeks nine reliefs, including a declaration that the constitution of the Board's Directorate Staff Disciplinary Committee was irregular, illegal, null, and void. He also contests the composition of the committee, alleging that it consisted mostly of individuals implicated in infractions exposed by him. Usman asserts that this compromised his right to fair hearing.
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The claimant further seeks a declaration that his dismissal without the consideration of the Committee's Report by the defendant's board is unlawful, illegal, and null. He requests an order setting aside his dismissal and reinstating him to his position with full entitlements, benefits, and perks.
Additionally, Usman asks the court for an order compelling JAMB to promote him as the Director of Finance and Account, citing the current Director's illegal tenure beyond the retirement age.
In his statement of material facts, Usman outlines his journey in JAMB since joining in 1997, highlighting his rise to the position of deputy director and imminent elevation to the role of Director of Finance and Account.
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Usman contends that his commitment to accountability, transparency, and anti-corruption principles led to conflicts with the board's management, particularly Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede. He emphasizes his efforts to expose infractions through complaints to various government agencies.
Despite continuous transfers and a trumped-up charge, Usman claims he diligently performed his duties. The suit seeks ₦150 million in exemplary damages for the alleged wrongful dismissal and the emotional, reputational, psychological pain, and trauma caused by the actions of JAMB.
Justice Osatohanmwen Obaseki-Osaghae has adjourned the matter until March 11 for further mention. The judge also directed that a hearing notice be issued and served on the defendant before the next adjourned date.
