NIPSS Withdrawal Controversy: PRNigeria Founder Vows to Appeal

The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) has secured a major court victory in its disciplinary action against PRNigeria founder Yushau Shuaib. The Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed Mr Shuaib's ₦1 billion suit against NIPSS, ruling that the institute acted within its powers.

The court found that Mr Shuaib's apology on behalf of PRNigeria over a publication considered offensive by NIPSS effectively admitted wrongdoing. Justice Binta Nyako held that Mr Shuaib appeared before NIPSS's disciplinary committee to respond to allegations, which meant he could not claim a denial of fair hearing.

Mr Shuaib initially joined the Senior Executive Course 47 at NIPSS but was withdrawn from the programme after NIPSS found that he had breached its confidentiality rules. The PRNigeria founder had apologised over a PRNigeria publication that NIPSS deemed offensive.

In his originating summons, Mr Shuaib asked the court to set aside his withdrawal, order his reinstatement, and restrain NIPSS from harassment, intimidation, or cyberbullying. He also asked the court to determine whether NIPSS accessed his private email correspondence without his consent.

Yushau Shuaib was nominated by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to participate in SEC 47, with the nomination approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He complied with all admission requirements, handing over operational responsibilities of PRNigeria to another person.

The PRNigeria founder's suit against NIPSS sought ₦1 billion in damages for emotional trauma and reputational injury. Mr Shuaib also sought ₦100 million as litigation costs after serving a pre-action notice to the Director-General of NIPSS, Ayo Omotayo, which was allegedly ignored.

Mr Shuaib has declared his intention to challenge the judgment at the Court of Appeal, stating that there are 'substantial constitutional and legal issues that deserve appellate review.' He believes this will protect his fundamental rights and ensure justice in the matter.

### Key Facts

  • ₦1 billion damages sought by Yushau Shuaib
  • ₦100 million litigation costs also claimed
  • Mr Shuaib was nominated by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)
  • SEC 47 course fees: ₦18.3 million
  • President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved Mr Shuaib's nomination

### Who is Yushau Shuaib?

Yushau Shuaib is the founder of PRNigeria and Chief Executive Officer of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR). He is a public relations practitioner with a strong reputation in Nigeria.

### Context

NIPSS, a prestigious research and policy think tank, has a long history of producing top policymakers in Nigeria. Its Senior Executive Course 47 was attended by Mr Shuaib alongside other high-level government officials and policymakers.

### What's Next?

Mr Shuaib's intention to appeal the ruling will move the case to the Court of Appeal, where the NIPSS disciplinary action will be reviewed further.

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