Joseph Dindiok Kpemka sues BOST over alleged unlawful termination

Joseph Dindiok Kpemka, the former Deputy Managing Director of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation (BOST) Company, has initiated legal action against the state-owned enterprise for what he describes as the unlawful termination of his appointment. The lawsuit follows the change in government in early 2025, after which Kpemka claims his employment status was left in limbo without formal communication or the settlement of his contractual entitlements. He is seeking full compensation as stipulated in his employment agreement, citing the company's failure to provide proper notice of his dismissal.

Represented by his lawyer, Patrick Fafali Azameti, Kpemka asserts that BOST failed to adhere to the terms of his contract, which required the company to provide formal notice of termination or payment in lieu of such notice. According to the court filings, the former Deputy MD made several attempts to clarify his standing and secure the benefits owed to him, but these efforts were allegedly ignored by the company's management. The plaintiff argues that the lack of formal termination constitutes a breach of contract and has resulted in significant financial loss for him since his departure from the post.

The legal dispute has gained further weight following revelations that the Attorney-General's Office had previously advised BOST to fulfill its financial obligations to Kpemka. Despite this high-level legal counsel suggesting that the former official be paid his due entitlements, the company has reportedly taken no action to resolve the matter privately. The case also highlights legal questions regarding BOST's corporate status as an entity distinct from the state, emphasizing that it must abide by standard employment laws regardless of political transitions.

Kpemka, who served under the previous administration, is now asking the court to compel BOST to pay his outstanding arrears and benefits. The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for how statutory corporations handle the transitions of senior management personnel during changes in government. As the case proceeds, it remains to be seen whether the court will uphold the Attorney-General’s earlier recommendation or if the company will present a formal defense for its handling of the termination.