Judicial employees in Ogun State have initiated a five-day warning strike, resulting in the closure of entrances to the courts across the state. The strike, organized by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Ogun State chapter, is in response to the non-payment of the 40 per cent peculiar allowance.
On Monday morning, workers stationed themselves at the state high court and magistrate court in Isabo, Abeokuta, ensuring the gates remained shut. Observers noted the presence of litigants and lawyers waiting outside the courts, as judges were unable to access the premises to carry out their duties.
Speaking to reporters, the state chairman of JUSUN, Olarenwaju Ajiboye, emphasized that the strike was necessitated by the state government’s failure to address their demands even after the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum.
Ajiboye highlighted the union’s efforts to engage with the government, including written correspondence and meetings with stakeholders, regarding the payment of the peculiar allowance. However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response, leading to the decision to embark on the warning strike.
“Today, Ogun State judicial workers commenced a five-day warning strike to protest non-payment of 40 per cent peculiar allowance of judicial workers by the state government,” Ajiboye stated.
He further outlined the union’s plans, indicating that if the government fails to meet their demands, an indefinite strike will commence on March 18, 2024.
The dispute stems from the government’s initiation of a non-peculiar allowance for core civil servants in August 2023, while judicial workers were excluded. Despite efforts by the union to address the issue through dialogue and ultimatums, the impasse remains unresolved, prompting the industrial action.
The closure of court entrances underscores the impact of the strike on judicial activities and the urgency for resolution to ensure the resumption of normal operations.
