An Innocent Mistake – Family Defends Nigerian Grandmother Sacked By UK University
The family of 71-year-old Janet Damiro, a cleaner recently dismissed from the London School of Economics, has addressed widespread reports about the incident, calling the media and online narratives misleading and lacking essential context.
The victim’s daughter, Aina Damiro, in a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Friday, clarified the events that led to her mother’s dismissal, stating that the situation has been “blown out of proportion.”
According to her, the incident occurred in February during the final minutes of Janet’s morning shift when she found a bracelet on the floor.
She reportedly picked it up with the intention of handing it in but inadvertently forgot.
She said that the bracelet was left untouched in her coin wallet, which remained in her locker at the university.
“When approached about the bracelet a few days later, she was honest and cooperative.
“She retrieved it immediately and explained what had happened. There was no denial or attempt to hide it,” she said.
The family insists this was a case of forgetfulness rather than theft or misconduct, stressing that Janet had served the institution faithfully for years.
They argued that the university’s decision to terminate her employment was a disproportionate response lacking empathy, especially for an older worker nearing retirement.
The family said, “To see her name and image used to suggest wrongdoing is not only unfair but deeply hurtful.
“This was an innocent mistake that has been misrepresented in a way that raises questions about how older workers, particularly women of colour in lower-paid roles, are treated.”
The family stated that Janet granted the interview to the Metro UK in good faith, hoping to raise awareness, not to be vilified.
“We hope the public and media will reconsider how they are framing this story,” the family added, urging institutions to reflect on their duty to support vulnerable and long-serving members of staff.
The London School of Economics has not issued a formal response as of press time.
The case has since sparked conversation online under hashtags such as #JusticeForJanet and #RespectElderWorkers.
