Janet Olufunke Damiro, a 71-year-old Nigerian grandmother and cleaner at the London School of Economics (LSE) for 13 years, was dismissed after being accused of stealing a bracelet she found while working. Janet explained that she had taken the bracelet to keep it safe and intended to return it later but forgot to report it immediately. Despite returning the bracelet and apologizing, she was suspended and then sacked for gross misconduct, leaving her shocked and devastated.
More than 70 colleagues, including supervisors, have come forward to support Janet, emphasizing her integrity, professionalism, and strong work ethic. Her union, United Voices of the World (UVW), has appealed the dismissal, calling the accusation absurd and disproportionate given Janet’s honest cooperation. The union highlighted that someone intending to steal would not return the item repeatedly and described Janet’s treatment as unfair and damaging.
The case has also drawn student support, with a petition demanding Janet’s reinstatement, arguing that the punishment is excessive for what was essentially a minor mistake. Janet remains jobless and worried about her future, while LSE has declined to comment as the appeal process continues.
