The National Industrial Court in Ibadan has ordered Nestlé Nigeria PLC to pay N10 million as compensation to an employee, Ilesanmi Temokun, who suffered severe injuries on the company’s premises due to negligence.
This landmark ruling underscores the importance of workplace safety and employers’ responsibility in ensuring a hazard-free environment.
Justice John Peters, in delivering the judgment on Tuesday, affirmed that Nestlé Nigeria PLC was negligent, leading to the accident that left Temokun with long-term health issues.
The incident occurred on September 4, 2021, when an unsecured iron locker fell on the 35-year-old employee, causing serious injuries, including spinal shock.
Temokun, through his legal counsel Tope Temokun, had sued Nestlé Nigeria PLC and Mary Bolajoko Consultancy Services Limited, alleging negligence and seeking compensation for the injuries sustained.
In his argument, the claimant’s counsel stressed that the company failed in its duty of care, which directly led to the life-threatening injuries sustained by his client.
He sought N10 million in damages and compensation. Responding to the claim, Nestlé’s legal representative, Abraham Adeoye, argued that the lawsuit was without merit and should be dismissed.
However, the court found Nestlé liable. Justice Peters emphasized that had proper safety measures been in place, particularly securing the iron locker, the accident could have been avoided.
The judge noted that the employee’s injuries were so severe that he has since been advised to avoid strenuous activities and prolonged standing.
“The first defendant (Nestlé) owed the claimant a duty of care, which they failed to uphold.
“ The claimant has successfully proven his case, and I hereby award him a sum of N10 million in compensation,” Justice Peters ruled.
In addition to the compensation, the court awarded a litigation cost of N500,000 to the claimant and stipulated that the judgment would attract an annual interest of 20% until fully settled.
While the court absolved Mary Bolajoko Consultancy Services Limited of any liability, noting that her role was limited to recruiting the claimant for Nestlé, the ruling puts the spotlight on the accountability of large corporations in maintaining safe working environments for their employees.
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