A UK tribunal has dismissed a racial discrimination lawsuit filed by Victor Stanley-Idum, a Nigerian project manager, against the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The civil servant had alleged racial bias after being reprimanded for engaging in personal activities during official work hours while working remotely.
Stanley-Idum faced disciplinary action for running errands such as purchasing a vacuum cleaner and taking an Uber to the airport during working hours.
In his complaint, he argued that his manager held a discriminatory perception of Black Africans as lazy.
However, the tribunal ruled in favor of the MoD, citing concerns over Stanley-Idum’s inconsistent work schedule and use of office time for personal matters.
He had defended his actions by claiming he remained productive while on the move, including continuing work on his laptop during Uber rides and while running errands.
Despite these claims, the panel found his explanations unpersuasive.
Judge Tim Adkin stated that evidence showed Stanley-Idum had not adhered to proper work conduct and had misused official time.
Concerns over his work ethic had previously led his supervisor, Sharon Docherty, to implement a structured timetable for him.
Stanley-Idum later accused Docherty of racism, harassment, and victimization. However, the tribunal found no grounds to support these allegations.
“We do not believe Mrs. Docherty held any stereotypical or prejudiced view of Black Africans being lazy or dishonest,” Judge Adkin concluded.
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