The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) leadership in Osun State has warned that the ongoing shutdown of courts across the state—now in place since September 22, 2025—could escalate into a state of emergency if not urgently addressed.In a letter dated December 8, 2025, and addressed to Governor Ademola Adeleke, the NBA urged the state government to compel the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) to suspend its strike and resume work within seven days**. Copies of the letter were also sent to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, the Chief Judge, the Attorney General, and the JUSUN chairman.
The letter was jointly signed by chairmen of the five NBA branches in the state: Maruf Adediran (Osogbo), Niyi Akinsola (Ikirun), F. O. Ajani (Iwo), Ayodele Olawoye (Ife), Raymond Oki (Ilesa). They warned that the prolonged closure of courts poses severe risks to public order, constitutional governance, and the rights of Osun residents who depend on the judiciary.
The strike, embarked on by JUSUN members, stems from unmet demands and has crippled judicial activities for months. Efforts by the NBA to mediate included separate meetings with the Chief Judge, Adepele Ojo; the Attorney General, Oluwole Jimi-Bada; and the JUSUN leadership.
However, the Association expressed frustration after JUSUN boycotted a joint meeting convened with the Chief Judge, accusing the judiciary’s leadership of failing to show commitment to resolving the crisis. The NBA stressed that the continued impasse is unacceptable and called on the state government to intervene decisively.
