Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the Federal High Court, Abuja Tuesday thrown out the suit filed by the suspended Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, for lack of jurisdiction.
The Judge held that since it is a labour and employment-related matter, the appropriate court to hear the suit is the National Industrial Court (NIC).
Sanusi had through his counsel, Kola Awodein (SAN), filed the suit, challenging his suspension as CBN Governor by President Goodluck Jonathan.
The President had announced the suspension of Mr. Sanusi on February 20, relying on the report of the Financial Reporting Council, which indicted him of financial recklessness.
Justice Kolawole held that, in line with Sections 251(1) and 254(c) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the proper court, where Sanusi ought to have instituted the suit, was the NIC.
He however contended that the suspended Governor was free to challenge his decision at the Appellate Court.
According to the Judge, he decided not to preside over the case to avoid making prejudicial pronouncements prior to the matter getting to the National Industrial Court.
Sanusi’s tenure as Governor of the nation’s Apex Bank expires on June1, 2014.
Already, sequel to President Jonathan’s request, Sanusi’s successor, Godwin Emefiele, has been approved by the Senate.
