ASCSN Appeals Court Ruling and Calls for Calm Among Members
The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has issued a strong appeal to its members across the nation to remain calm and composed in the wake of a recent court judgment obtained by its former President, Innocent Bola-Audu. The association is embroiled in a contentious leadership dispute, with Bola-Audu contesting his removal from office, while ASCSN maintains that his term had lawfully expired.
Legal Actions and Appeals Filed
In response to the court judgment dated April 15, 2026, which was secured by Bola-Audu, the ASCSN has taken decisive legal steps. The association has officially filed a notice of appeal against the ruling, asserting its constitutional right to challenge the decision. Additionally, a motion on notice for a stay of execution has been submitted, aiming to halt any immediate enforcement of the judgment pending the outcome of the appeal process.
Background of the Dispute
The roots of this conflict trace back to 2021 when Bola-Audu was expelled from the union following his arrest by the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). He was subsequently charged in court with allegations of human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable persons, which led to his removal from the ASCSN presidency.
In a joint statement, ASCSN National President Shehu Mohammed and Secretary-General Joshua Apebo provided further context. They referenced a previous judgment from the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) on July 9, 2024, in Suit No. NICN/ABJ/214/2022. The court had ruled that Bola-Audu, who was elected National President on July 29, 2020, should complete his tenure by July 29, 2024, and be compensated with N3 million for legal fees.
"All efforts to have Innocent Bola-Audu receive his compensation of N3 million, as ordered by the Court, have been rebuffed by him," the statement noted. "It is, therefore, not surprising that two years after his tenure expired, he had the effrontery to deceive the Court again by claiming that he was re-elected at a purported delegates' conference."
Call for Unity and Confidence
The ASCSN leadership expressed dismay over what they described as a "purported dismissal and suspension" mentioned in Bola-Audu's letter dated April 15, 2026. They urged all members to remain calm, confident, and focused on the association's core objectives and missions. Emphasizing their faith in the judicial system, they expressed confidence that the Appellate Court would overturn the judgment obtained by Bola-Audu and his associates.
"The ASCSN, as a democratic organisation, is not owned by one man and should not be administered by an emperor," the statement concluded, reinforcing the association's commitment to collective governance and transparency.
This ongoing legal battle highlights the challenges within one of Nigeria's key civil servant unions, as it navigates internal disputes while striving to uphold its democratic principles and serve its members effectively.
