Nigerian oil-union leaders reinstated

LAGOS (Reuter) - A federal high court judge yesterday reinstated oil-union leaders sacked by General Sanni Abacha, the military ruler, in an attempt to end a pro-democracy strike.

Judge Mamman Kolo said that leaders of Nupeng should remain in office until 31 August, when he will hear an appeal against their dismissal.

'The association's executive body dissolved by government should have its original status quo maintained until then,' he said.

General Abacha named new army and navy chiefs on Monday in a further sign that he is keen to stamp his authority on the country. The union is asking the court to declare the sackings of its executives, and those of another union, illegal.

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