The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has suspended its indefinite strike, which began on Sunday night.In a communiqué released Monday and signed by JUSUN National Vice-President Mustapha Laminu along with principal officers from various judiciary sections, the union directed its members to return to work starting Wednesday.
The strike was declared by JUSUN’s acting General Secretary, M.J. Akwashiki, following what the union described as fruitless meetings with the Minister of Labour and Employment. Core grievances included the delayed payment of a five-month wage award, non-implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage, and a 25%/35% salary increment provided for in the 2025 Appropriation Act.
The decision to end the strike came after the union received assurances from key figures including the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, the Nigeria Labour Congress, and other stakeholders. These parties requested one month to engage the Federal Government for the release of necessary funds to the judiciary.
The communiqué stated, “JUSUN acknowledges the intervention of the Honourable Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi; NLC, and other stakeholders, and agrees to allow time for engagement with the Federal Government on the release of funds.”
It further noted that once the judiciary receives the funds, the union expects immediate implementation of its demands, including the new minimum wage and arrears, the 25%/33% salary adjustments, and the outstanding wage award.
“In light of the commitment from the Chief Justice of Nigeria and after thorough review by JUSUN leadership, the union has agreed to suspend the ongoing strike. Staff are therefore directed to resume duties on Wednesday, June 4, 2025,” the statement concluded.
During the strike, the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal headquarters in Abuja were closed, while staff of the Supreme Court remained on duty, as indicated in a prior communiqué.
Source : https://punchng.com/
