Kaduna’s 4-Day Work Week Policy Faces Major Legal Test as Appeal Court Hears Challenge

By Mercy Maigana

KADUNA – The controversy surrounding the controversial four-day work and schooling week introduced by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai has reached a critical juncture, with the Court of Appeal in Kaduna on Wednesday hearing arguments in a case that could determine the policy’s future.

The appellate court convened a special session to hear the appeal filed by Kaduna-based legal practitioner Gloria Mabeiam Ballason, who is challenging the constitutionality of the executive order that has reshaped the work rhythm of the state since December 2021.

In a courtroom brimming with legal minds, a seasoned panel of Justices—comprising Hon. Justice Onyekachi Aja Otisi, Hon. Justice Abimbola Osarugue Obaseki-Adejumo, and Hon. Justice Sybil Onyeji Nwaka-Gbagi—listened intently as both parties presented their arguments.

Ballason, representing herself as the Appellant, adopted her brief of argument, passionately urging the justices to allow the appeal and set aside the previous ruling of the lower Court. She argues that the policy, which limits work and schooling to four days weekly, has not only affected workforce productivity and disrupted the academic calendar for school children but also impeded her legal practice.

On the other side, a robust legal team led by the Attorney General of Kaduna State, Dr. J.A. Kanyip, stood firm in defense of the state’s position. Flanked by a team of lawyers including A.A. Aku, S.M. Gamaliel, M.P. Danjuma, and Koni Tauna, the Attorney General adopted their brief and urged the court to uphold the lower court’s ruling and dismiss the appeal. Notably, the Minister of Interior, listed as the 4th Respondent, was absent despite proof of service.

After listening to the submissions from both the Appellant and the Respondents, the presiding Justices reserved judgment, promising to deliver a ruling at a later date.

The decision of the appellate court is highly anticipated, as it promises to provide legal clarity on the scope of a governor’s executive powers and the future of the work schedule for thousands of civil servants and students across Kaduna State.