IGUH, J.S.C. (Delivering the Leading Judgment): The proceedings leading to this appeal were first initiated in the High Court of Justice of Kaduna State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, holden at Kaduna on the 28th day of April, 1986. In that court, the appellant, as plaintiff, claimed against the respondents, then defendants, by way of an originating summons as follows:-
"1. A declaration that the purported retirement of the plaintiff as an Upper Area Court Judge in Kaduna State by the first defendant is invalid, null and void and of no effect.
2. A declaration that the retirement of the plaintiff as conveyed by the 1st defendant's letter reference No. S. CAC/549/72 of 8th February, 1985 in so far as it purports to be in accordance with the provisions of the Public Officers (Special Provisions) Decree No. 17 of 1984 is illegal, null and void and of no effect.
3. An order restoring the plaintiff to his office and duty as an Upper Area Judge and to continue to so function until he r…