The Nigerian Senate has mandated the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to reinstate Engr. Aniekan Paddy Ukpe, a former District Engineer, and pay his outstanding entitlements.
Ukpe’s appointment was terminated in March 2023 following allegations of negligence related to the vandalization of railway tracks in Kaduna. However, the Senate, led by the Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, found no evidence implicating him in the incident.
Ukpe, who oversaw the North Central District covering Kaduna, Plateau, Benue, and Nasarawa states, reported a vandalism case at Kamuru Station, Zonkwa, Kaduna, in September 2022. He alerted the District Manager and filed a formal police report, leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators.
Despite his efforts, he was accused of underreporting the incident and subsequently dismissed following an inquiry by an investigative committee. Ukpe alleged bias in the committee’s proceedings and inadequate opportunity to defend himself.
Presenting the case, Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), revealed that the investigation upheld Ukpe’s petition of wrongful dismissal. The Senate ruled that the NRC failed to justify his termination, rejecting its claim of negligence and violation of the Railway General Rules of 1964.
The Senate directed:
- Immediate reinstatement of Engr. Ukpe to his position.
- Full payment of all outstanding entitlements.
The resolution underscores the Senate’s commitment to ensuring justice in employment disputes within government agencies.
