Lagos Court Awards Teacher N4.4m for 27-Year Gratuity Denial by Private School

The Industrial Court in Lagos has condemned a Lagos private school for unlawfully denying a teacher, Mr. Anniett, his 27-year gratuity.

Hon. Justice Joyce O.

Damachi delivered the judgment, awarding Mr. Anniett N1.9 million as gratuity, N2 million as general damages, and N500,000 as the cost of action, totaling N4.4 million.

The court found that Mr. Anniett had diligently served the school from 1992 until his employment was terminated in November 2021.

Despite being entitled to full gratuity after serving for 16 years or more, the school refused to pay, leading Mr. Anniett to seek judicial intervention.

The court ruled that the school's actions were unfair and contrary to fair labor practices, emphasizing that long-serving employees cannot be denied their entitlements. The judgment serves as a strong message against exploiting long-serving workers.