Anambra Judiciary Workers Launch Indefinite Strike

The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Anambra State Chapter, commenced an indefinite strike on Monday due to the state government’s refusal to pay the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUS).

According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), court proceedings were halted at the High Courts at Ekwueme Square, Chief Magistrate’s Courts, and Customary Courts in Amawbia, Awka. Magistrates, judges, and staff were absent from the court premises, leaving only security personnel on duty. Lawyers and litigants who arrived at the courts were turned away as the entrance gates were locked.

JUSUN State Chairman, Mr. Henry Ezeoke, stated that the strike aims to protest the state government’s failure to adhere to agreements reached in 2011 and 2015 regarding the payment of CONJUS. Ezeoke explained, “We have explored all possible avenues, but the state government has refused to comply with the agreement on implementing CONJUS.”

Ezeoke also noted that the union had previously issued a 21-day ultimatum to the state government, which was ignored. “We believe that downing tools is the only language the government will understand,” he said. The strike will continue indefinitely until the government meets the union’s conditions, pending further directives from the union.