Appeal Court Decides Unmarried Pregnant Police Officers’ Dismissal Unlawful.
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has ruled against Regulations 126 and 127 of the Nigerian Police, which permit the dismissal of unmarried female officers who become pregnant while in service.
In a unanimous decision delivered by Justice Olubunmi Oyewole, the court declared the aforementioned regulations illegal. The three-man panel, which included Justices Bukola Banjoko and Okon Abang, called for a comprehensive review of the entire Police Regulations to align with modern societal standards governed by the rule of law.
Super Eagles: Don’t Impose Problematic Assistants On Finidi – Udeze
The judgment stemmed from a suit filed by the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) challenging discriminatory practices within the Nigerian Police Force. The legal battle began on February 15, 2021, when the NBA filed an originating summons contesting Regulation 127, which mandates the discharge of unmarried pregnant policewomen from the force.
The NBA argued that this regulation contravened Sections 37 and 42 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and sought its nullification. Despite an initial dismissal of the case by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, the NBA pursued an appeal.
Security, Govt Officials Turned Banditry into Business Venture — Governor
In its ruling, the Court of Appeal overturned the Federal High Court’s decision, emphasizing that Regulations 126 and 127 infringed upon the privacy and rights of female police officers. Justice Oyewole criticized the regulations for gender bias and emphasized that morality and discipline should not be selectively enforced based on gender.
The court’s decision highlighted the constitutional rights of female officers and the need for equitable treatment within the police force. It urged a reevaluation of the entire Police Regulations to ensure compliance with constitutional provisions and modern societal values.
The Court of Appeal allowed the appeal, nullified the decision of the lower court, and granted the reliefs sought by the NBA. Parties involved were instructed to bear their respective costs.
This landmark ruling underscores the importance of upholding gender equality and individual rights within law enforcement agencies, signaling a significant victory for gender justice in Nigeria.
Ejes Gist News recalls that Woman Police Corporal (WPC) Olajide Omolola was dismissed from the police force and had her police insignia and uniform removed in January 2021. This incident sparked widespread controversy and debate about the treatment of unmarried pregnant women in the police force.
Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible Naija News Today, latest naija gists today and Breaking News in Nigeria Now.
