Judicial activities across Abuja, Nigeria’s capital and several states came to a complete standstill on Monday following the commencement of an indefinite strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).
The union’s members shut down access to key courts, effectively barring judges, lawyers, litigants, and court staff from entry.
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According to reports, the Federal High Court headquarters on Shehu Shagari Way in Abuja found all gates locked, with no staff in sight. The same scenario unfolded at the Court of Appeal and the FCT High Court in Maitama, where strict adherence to the strike order was observed.
This industrial action stems from a circular issued on May 30 by JUSUN’s Acting National Secretary, M.J. Akwashiki.
In the notice, all state chapters were instructed to ensure full withdrawal from duties starting midnight on June 1, citing failed efforts at dialogue with the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
“Our organs—the National Working Committee and National Executive Council—have agreed that the strike continues until further notice,” the circular read.
JUSUN’s grievances include non-payment of five months’ worth of wage awards, demands for the full implementation of the ₦70,000 new national minimum wage, and a salary increase between 25 and 35 percent.
They are also pressing for the prompt disbursement of statutory allocations as contained in the 2025 national budget.
Although there were indications that some state chapters might opt out of the strike, court premises across Abuja remained shut as of Monday morning, paralyzing normal activities.
Speaking to journalists, JUSUN President Marwan Adamu confirmed the strike was still ongoing. “We’re in a closed-door session at the Supreme Court, and while discussions are in progress, the strike stands,” he said.
Pressed further on whether partial fulfillment of their demands could lead to a suspension of the strike, Adamu declined to speculate. “I cannot comment until negotiations are concluded and we have a clear position.”
Despite appeals from Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for the strike to be put on hold to allow room for dialogue, the industrial action proceeded as scheduled.
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