By Queen Kunde
The Director of Senate Table Duties in the National Assembly, Dr. Christopher Vershima Ashiekaa, has taken legal action against the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) over what he claims is an attempt to retire him prematurely. The suit, filed before Justice Osatohanmwen Ayodele Obaseki Osaghae of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, challenges the application of Rule 020909 of the Public Service Rules (2021 edition) by the Commission, led by Engr. Ahmed Kadi Amshi.
Dr. Ashiekaa, represented by Barrister Daniel Penda, argues that the rule was misinterpreted to justify his early retirement. Meanwhile, the NASC and the National Assembly Management, represented by Abdul A. Ibrahim, SAN, Aisha O. Abdulsalam, and Barr. Charles Yoila, are preparing their defense.
The case, NICN/ABJ/455/2024, centers on whether Dr. Ashiekaa’s 2017 notional promotion to Director Legislative, which he claims did not involve actual service or financial benefits, should count toward his tenure. Citing precedents like Amb DCB Nwanna vs National Intelligence Agency (NIA) (2013), the claimant contends his effective tenure as Director began on January 1, 2018, making him eligible to serve until January 2026 under Rule 020909’s eight-year limit. Furthermore, he asserts that under public service rules, his statutory retirement date remains November 2027, as he joined the National Assembly in 1992 and has not reached the age of 60.
During the first hearing on Wednesday, the NASC’s counsel requested seven days to file a defense, citing late briefing. Justice Obaseki adjourned the matter to February 17, 2025, for further mention.
Dr. Ashiekaa’s case underscores a broader issue of clarity in interpreting public service rules, particularly concerning notional appointments and retirement timelines. As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome could set a significant precedent for public servants nationwide.