Judiciary workers in Anambra State have announced an indefinite strike set to begin on Monday, a move that will effectively shut down all court operations in the state.
This decision arises from the state government’s alleged failure to honour agreements made in 2011 and 2015, according to a letter obtained by journalists in Awka on Saturday.
The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), in a press conference held in Awka, expressed deep frustration with the state government’s non-compliance with previously negotiated terms, particularly the implementation of the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUS).
JUSUN leaders, Chairman Mr. Henry Ezeoke and Secretary Ugochukwu Nwezi, addressed the media, highlighting the government’s persistent disregard for the union’s demands.
“The state government has continuously ignored our agreements and ultimatums,” Mr. Ezeoke stated. “We have no other choice but to withdraw our services until our conditions are met.”
The strike notice, which was addressed to key stakeholders including Assistant Chief Registrars, Registrars in-charge, and all judiciary staff in Anambra State, emphasized that the strike will continue indefinitely until the government honours their demands.
The letter directed all judiciary staff to withdraw their services starting from Monday, July 15, 2024, and to await further directives from the union.
The decision to strike follows the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum issued by JUSUN to the state government, which was ignored.
According to the union, they have exhausted all other avenues for dialogue and negotiation.
The letter reads: “Based on the failure of the Anambra State Government to comply with the agreement reached in 2011 and 2015 respectively with the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Anambra State Branch for the full implementation of the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUS), a notice is hereby issued.
All staff of the Anambra State Judiciary are directed to withdraw their services, effective from Monday the 15th day of July, 2024, pending further directives by the union in the state.”
The strike is expected to disrupt all judicial activities across the state, including court proceedings and other related services.
This action underscores the ongoing tensions between judiciary workers and the state government, as the workers feel that striking is the only means to compel the government to fulfill its obligations.
This strike marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute over the implementation of the CONJUS, which has been a longstanding issue since the agreements were first made over a decade ago.
The outcome of this industrial action could have far-reaching implications for the state’s judiciary and its stakeholders.
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