The National Industrial Court of Nigeria has directed the Nigerian Navy to reinstate Naval Rating Officer Fagbemi Babatunde, who was dismissed in 2008. The court ordered the Navy to pay all outstanding salaries, benefits, and pension contributions owed to Babatunde from August 2008 to March 2025. Additionally, Babatunde was awarded N7 million in damages and N1 million for legal costs.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Babatunde, accompanied by his counsel Qousim Opakunle Esq, described his ordeal. He asserted that his dismissal was both wrongful and without trial, despite numerous attempts to challenge the decision.
“I was detained and subsequently dismissed without facing formal charges or a trial. Over the years, I wrote letters seeking an explanation, but my pleas were ignored,” Babatunde stated.
The dismissal stemmed from allegations that Babatunde refused to sign for and collect a weapon while on duty at the Knock Adoon platform owned by Addax Petroleum Company Ltd. The Nigerian Navy maintained that he had been investigated and dismissed for disobedience, a claim Babatunde disputed.
“They alleged that I refused to take a weapon, yet I was never deployed to the platform in question. Even if there was disobedience, the law mandates a proper trial instead of an arbitrary dismissal,” Babatunde explained.
After years of seeking justice, Babatunde filed a case against the Navy with the National Industrial Court. Presiding over the matter, Justice E. D. Subilim declared the dismissal unlawful and ruled in Babatunde’s favor.
“This judgment has affirmed the injustice I endured. I am relieved that the court has finally upheld my rights,” Babatunde remarked.
The court’s ruling not only calls for Babatunde’s reinstatement but also directs the Navy to settle all financial entitlements and pension contributions spanning over 16 years.
