Paraphrased Content:The Ondo State chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has called off its two-week-old indefinite strike following assurances from the state government to address their demands. The union had embarked on industrial action over the government’s failure to implement financial autonomy for the judiciary, as constitutionally mandated.
JUSUN Chairman, Comrade Oluwafemi Afolabi, announced the suspension of the strike after a crucial meeting with government representatives led by the State Attorney General, Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN). According to Afolabi, the government promised to set up a dedicated committee that will work out modalities for implementing financial independence for the judiciary, in line with constitutional provisions.
The union expressed confidence in the sincerity of the current administration under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, citing the governor’s directive for the immediate commencement of processes to address their grievances. The committee, expected to be inaugurated soon, will focus on full compliance with financial autonomy, particularly in budget preparation and disbursement for the judiciary.
JUSUN stated that the suspension of the strike was in good faith and to allow time for the government to fulfill its promise. It also noted that should the agreement not be implemented within the agreed timeframe, the union reserves the right to resume the industrial action.
Court operations across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State are now expected to resume, bringing relief to lawyers, litigants, and judicial staff who had been affected by the shutdown.
