Abuja: The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has instructed its members in all federal courts and other judicial institutions across the nation to commence a strike starting June 2. This directive comes as they continue to push for the resolution of outstanding wage issues.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Mustapha Laminu, the National Vice President for North Central, communicated this decision in a statement released in Abuja. Laminu highlighted that the strike has become necessary as JUSUN members have not received the one-month wage award recently sanctioned by the government. The strike is a response to the non-payment of five months’ arrears of wage awards, the lack of implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage, and the non-implementation of the proposed 25/35 percent salary increase.
Laminu emphasized that the union had repeatedly appealed to management through a series of ultimatums, including a 21-day ultimatum and a seven-day ultimatum. However, the union had previously postponed their actions following the intervention of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. He expressed disappointment that the judiciary, as a government arm, is being neglected while other branches have received their entitlements. Laminu stated that union members are frustrated, accusing the leadership of compromising amidst the economic challenges brought on by government policies. He affirmed that the strike would persist until the government fulfills their financial obligations.
Laminu further alleged that the Ministry of Finance had released the necessary funds to the Accountant General of the Federation, who has yet to disburse them to the judiciary. Consequently, he urged all chapter chairmen to ensure adherence to the strike directive.
