NIGERIA’S HEAD OF SERVICE SUED OVER EXTENSION OF TENURE FOR PERM SEC

A group, Rainbow Push Coalition Nigeria, has instituted a legal action against the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Attorney General of the Federation and Dr. Jamila Shu’ara for extending Dr. Shu’ara’s tenure as Permanent Secretary after she allegedly attained the mandatory age of 60, contrary to the Public Service Rules in force in Nigeria. In the suit before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, by their counsel Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa, the plaintiff is seeking amongst others, a declaration that the said extension was contrary to relevant laws and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended; refund of all emoluments received during the illegal tenure by paying same back to the Federation Account.

The plaintiff also wants the court to direct the Attorney General to ensure compliance with the judgment of the court when delivered. The action which was commenced by originating summons is supported by an affidavit of many paragraphs sworn to by Benjamin Agbenyo, of Rainbow Push Coalition, Nigeria and a written address in support of the reliefs claimed by the plaintiff. No date has been fixed for hearing.