Osun Judiciary Workers Starts Indefinite Strike Over Welfare, Promotion Delay

Judiciary workers in Osun State have declared an indefinite strike, directing members to immediately withdraw their services and stay away from duty posts.

The decision, announced on Friday, followed a directive by the state leadership of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN). In a statement signed by Chairman Idris Adeniran, the union accused the state Judicial Service Commission, headed by Chief Judge Adepele Ojo, of neglecting staff welfare and failing to implement the 2024/2025 promotions.

Adeniran said the union had written to the commission on September 3 and even issued a three-day ultimatum on September 16, but received no response. He added that the government had already approved and paid benefits to workers in other ministries and parastatals, while judiciary staff were left out.

Among JUSUN’s demands are immediate consideration of staff promotions, payment of allowances, and sponsorship of workers for training at the National Judicial Institute.

“This unfortunate lack of response suggests a disturbing disregard for the rule of law and industrial harmony within the Osun State Judiciary. Left with no alternative, we are compelled to take decisive action,” the statement read.

Friday’s action marks a fresh round of industrial unrest in the state judiciary. Workers last suspended a three-month strike in March 2024 after a tripartite agreement with the state government and judiciary management. That agreement included a pledge to address promotions and other pending welfare issues.

JUSUN is now accusing the commission of failing to honour that commitment, leaving court operations once again paralysed.