By Emmanuel Edukugho
The landmark judgment of the Supreme Court of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Friday 12th June 2009 reinstating 5 of the 49 victimized lecturers of the University of Ilorin is a vindication of the unequivocal stand and plea of the National Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria during the reconciliation intervention meeting of NAPTAN with the Governing councils of the University at the instance of the National Universities Commission immediately the unlawful dismissal of the 49 lecturers was announced.
According to Alhaji Babs Alade Animashaun, Founder, 1st National president and currently National Co-ordinator of NAPTAN, it is very unfortunate and inhuman to have subjected the 49 principled lecturers to the mental agony and torture that the lecturers suffered during which time three of them died.
NAPTAN therefore urges the remaining sacked lecturers, apart from the 5 who tested and won their case at the Supreme Court to take advantage of the new judgement by appropriate legal steps to enjoy the same benefit.
It is the hope of National Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) that this judgement of the Supreme Court shall teach such recalcitrant governing councils still around that no matter how long, truth shall always prevail over deceit and wickedness, no matter how long the propaganda.
Animashaun, who was involved in the reconciliation process, said the landmark judgement and such other similar judgements of our courts of recent times have come to consolidate our belief and firm trust in our courts as the last hope of the common man.
NAPTAN commended the courage and fortitude of the great lecturers who endured the bitter taste of this episode.
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