The Supreme Court of Nigeria has brought to a close a protracted legal dispute between Tunde Adjoto and Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, striking out the oil giant’s appeal after nearly two decades of litigation.
In a unanimous judgment delivered on February 20, 2026, the apex court held that it lacks jurisdiction to entertain labour-related appeals, reaffirming that such matters are final at the Court of Appeal of Nigeria, in line with constitutional provisions.
The ruling effectively ends Shell’s attempt to challenge earlier decisions in favour of Adjoto, following its losses at both the National Industrial Court of Nigeria and the Court of Appeal.
The justices described the appeal as incompetent and struck it out, awarding ₦5 million in punitive costs against the company.
Reacting to the judgment, Adjoto’s counsel, Isaac M. Boro, praised the court for upholding the Constitution and delivering long-awaited justice.
“This ruling restores faith in the judiciary as the last hope of the oppressed,” Boro said.
Legal observers say the decision sends a strong message on the limits of appellate jurisdiction in labour disputes and cautions against the misuse of prolonged litigation.
The case, which spanned almost 20 years, is seen as a significant affirmation of judicial boundaries and a warning to corporate entities against deploying legal processes to delay justice.
