The ongoing strike action in Ondo State’s judiciary has escalated as the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has now joined the protest. This action comes in the wake of a previous strike by the Coalition of Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts, and Legal Research Officers, which began earlier this week.

The coalition had initially declared an indefinite strike on Monday, citing poor welfare conditions, unfulfilled promises by the state government, and the lack of financial autonomy for the state judiciary as their primary grievances. However, the situation worsened on Tuesday as JUSUN, the umbrella union for judicial staff, added its voice to the strike, further crippling judicial activities in Akure, the state capital.

By Tuesday, workers had locked judges out of court facilities, including the Ondo State Judiciary Headquarters, as they shut down operations. A visit to the complex on Wednesday revealed that the gates were locked, and several official vehicles belonging to judges were left parked outside, unable to enter due to the strike.

Judicial workers voiced their frustration, pointing out that JUSUN’s involvement in the strike had further intensified the disruption of court activities in the state. They are now urging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take immediate action to resolve the matter.

The workers are demanding urgent attention to their welfare concerns and a commitment to granting the judiciary financial autonomy. They warned that if these issues are not addressed promptly, the judiciary system in the state could remain completely paralysed until their demands are met.

As it stands, judicial activities in Ondo State remain at a standstill, with the workers pressing for immediate intervention from the governor.