Dismissed Akwa Ibom Policemen Seek Reinstatement Justice

Five policemen from Akwa Ibom State, who were wrongfully dismissed from service in 2007, are expressing frustration over their non-reinstatement despite a favorable court ruling in 2019. The National Industrial Court, presided over by Justice M.

Namtari, declared their dismissal null and void, ordering their immediate reinstatement and payment of salary arrears from January 2007. The policemen, who joined the service in 2003, were dismissed on grounds of illiteracy, despite having undergone training.

They have made several appeals to the Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission, but their efforts have been unsuccessful. The matter was brought to the attention of the Senate by former Senator Aniekan Bassey, yet no action has been taken.

The dismissed officers are now appealing to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other lawmakers for assistance, as they continue to face hardships due to their inability to secure employment since their dismissal.