NYSC Faces Scrutiny: Legal Experts Discuss Implications of Landmark Ruling on Certificate Authentication – Cliptv Online

by Omotayo Jamiu Adewale

Justice Inyang Ekwo Rules in Favor of Governor Mbah, Awards N5 Million Damages Against NYSC

In a significant legal victory, Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled in favor of Enugu Governor, Peter Mbah, validating the authenticity of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate he presented. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by Governor Mbah against NYSC, asserting that he duly completed his national youth service and was issued a certificate of discharge.

In a decisive judgment delivered on Monday in the suit numbered FHC/ABJ/CS/1611/2023, Justice Ekwo emphatically stated that the evidence presented in court established that Governor Mbah participated in the NYSC program and was legitimately issued a certificate of completion. The judge criticized NYSC for its lack of diligence, pointing out that the organization failed to produce essential documents related to Mbah’s participation in the program. Consequently, Justice Ekwo imposed a penalty of N5 million against NYSC, in favor of Governor Mbah, for damages incurred.

Governor Mbah, in his court filings, had asserted that he completed his national youth service and was provided with a certificate of discharge. He also sought a declaration confirming his participation in the NYSC scheme for one calendar year, supported by a call-up letter numbered FRN/2001/800351 with the Lagos code LA/01/1532. Furthermore, he argued that he was issued a certificate of national service numbered A808297 upon completing his service year in 2003.

NYSC, in its response, attempted to challenge the authenticity of Governor Mbah’s certificate. The organization submitted various pieces of evidence, including the allegedly forged certificate submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a photocopy of the original certificate intended for Mbah, and documents indicating the processing and disposal of unclaimed certificates. However, the court found these submissions insufficient to refute Governor Mbah’s claims.

This ruling marks a turning point in the legal battle, reaffirming the validity of Governor Mbah’s NYSC certificate and holding NYSC accountable for misrepresentation. As the case concludes, it serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity of official documents and the justice system.