The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has expressed strong opposition to the reinstatement of Mr Innocent Bola-Audu as its President by the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN).
In a press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday, current President, Comrade Tommy Okon, accompanied by members of the Central Working Committee and National Executive Councils of the ASCSN, announced their appeal against the NICN judgement and their application for a stay of execution.
According to Okon, the appeal and stay of execution granted by the appellate court legally prevent Bola-Audu from assuming leadership of the union.
The ASCN officials also raised concerns about alleged threats by Bola-Audu to reclaim leadership forcefully with the help of individuals they described as “thugs.”
They urged union members to disregard any directives from Bola-Audu aimed at mobilising them.
“We have chosen to exercise our right to appeal the court’s decision and have applied for a stay of execution,”
Okon stated. “Therefore, Innocent Bola-Audu remains ineligible to assume the presidency pending the outcome of our legal challenge.”
The union officials further emphasised that Bola-Audu lacks the authority to unilaterally appoint, terminate, or discipline council members or staff at the union’s secretariat, a power vested solely in the central working committee and approved by the NEC (National Executive Council).
“This is a call for the government to recognise the true legal status,” Okon asserted.
“Despite any claims made, Bola Innocent Audu has not been reinstated, and his actions must be viewed accordingly.”
In conclusion, ASCN reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and urged government security agencies to be vigilant against any attempts to destabilise the union amid the ongoing legal dispute.
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