In what has been described as a shocking and controversial move, the Provost of the Federal College of Education (Technical) Gombe, Dr. Ali Boderi, alongside the College’s Governing Council, is facing severe criticism for the alleged dismissal of four senior officers on January 31, 2026.
The decision has sparked calls for immediate reversal and reinstatement, with accusations of procedural violations and injustice.
The dismissed officers who have each devoted decades of service to the institution are: Yusuf Shehu Aliyu, the College Librarian (32 years of service); Muhammad Malam Ibrahim, Director of Works (39 years of service); Ibrahim Shehu, Council Representative (38 years of service); and Umar Muhammad Bello, Registrar (32 years of service).
Collectively, these four individuals represent over 140 years of unbroken service to the College and have earned a reputation for unwavering dedication and professionalism.
Prior to the dismissal, none of these officers had been subject to any disciplinary action, including suspension, queries, or any adverse records. Their service was marked by integrity and diligence, with no history of misconduct.
The sudden termination of their appointments raises concerns over both the fairness and legality of the process.
The dismissal is seen as a clear violation of Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the right to a fair hearing.
Allegedly, two of the dismissed officers—the College Librarian and the Director of Works—were not even invited to appear before the six-man investigative committee set up by the Ministry.
This lack of due process further undermines the integrity of the dismissal.
Moreover, the College’s failure to follow the Public Service Rules (PSR) 030307, which stipulate that an officer must be allowed a full opportunity to exculpate themselves before a Senior Staff Disciplinary Committee (SSDC), casts serious doubts on the fairness of the actions taken.
By bypassing these legal and procedural safeguards, the Council may have acted ultra vires (beyond their legal authority).
The Governing Council has cited the officers’ recourse to the National Industrial Court as a justification for their dismissal. However, this raises significant legal concerns. According to the Gov. of Lagos State v. Ojukwu (1986) Supreme Court ruling, once a matter is before a court, administrative bodies are required to maintain the status quo. Penalizing employees for seeking judicial protection, as in this case, undermines constitutional guarantees and judicial independence.
Additionally, the charges of falsification and defamation levied against the officers are of a quasi-criminal nature and require compelling evidence.
The Council appears to have based its decision on an anonymous petition that included sensitive internal documents—documents that were reportedly in the exclusive custody of the Provost.
Not only was no investigation conducted into the leak of these documents, but the officers were also denied the opportunity to cross-examine their accusers in a transparent hearing.
Dismissal, being the most severe administrative sanction, carries far-reaching consequences, including the loss of pension and gratuity.
Applying such a harsh penalty to officers who have served for over 30 years without blemish, and who are approaching retirement age, seems both disproportionate and unconscionable.
Public institutions are expected to apply discipline with fairness and compassion, particularly when dealing with long-serving staff.
The actions of the Governing Council are also seen as indicative of selective justice.
In September 2024, a petition against the Council Chairman went unaddressed, and one of the signatories was even promoted to Deputy Provost. In stark contrast, the four dismissed officers were removed based on an anonymous petition—a glaring example of double standards that has significantly eroded staff morale and tarnished the institution’s reputation.
The speed with which the dismissals took place—within 48 hours of a court ruling—suggests a retaliatory motive, further casting doubt on the legitimacy of the actions taken.
A dismissal that violates both the Public Service Rules and the Constitution is unlikely to withstand legal or ministerial scrutiny.
In light of these grave concerns, there is a growing call for the institution to immediately reverse the dismissals and reinstate the affected officers.
A formal review should be conducted to investigate the procedural lapses, including the source of the leaked internal documents.
The College must ensure that its operations are in compliance with the law, the principles of justice, equity, and the rule of law.
To restore the integrity of the institution and uphold the dignity of Dr. Ali Boderi as outgoing Provost, it is imperative that an immediate stay be placed on the dismissal orders pending a formal review.
The affected officers must be reinstated unconditionally, as they deserve due process and the right to a fair hearing.
