The Abia State branch of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria has officially called off its industrial action, with immediate effect.
In a statement dated January 30, 2024, signed by State Chairman Prince Chinedu Ezeh and State Secretary Chibueze Nwachukwu, JUSUN confirmed that the decision followed a breakthrough in negotiations with the Abia State Government.
The resolution was achieved through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding and the complete settlement of outstanding arrears linked to the delayed implementation of the new minimum wage under the CONJUSS Scale for judiciary workers.
“This decision follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between JUSUN and the Abia State Government and the full payment of all arrears arising from the late implementation of the new minimum wage in line with the CONJUSS Scale for Judiciary workers, amongst many other issues,” the statement read.
JUSUN expressed appreciation to Governor Alex Otti’s administration for its prompt intervention and commitment to the welfare of judiciary staff.
Additionally, the union extended gratitude to the public for their patience and solidarity during the period of industrial action.
Recognizing the efforts of key stakeholders, JUSUN acknowledged the Chief Judge of Abia State, Justice Lilian Abai, as well as judiciary management, judges, the Nigerian Bar Association, senior advocates, and other crucial actors who stood by them throughout the strike.
The union hailed the suspension of the industrial action as a “significant milestone in our struggle for the financial autonomy and independence of the judiciary,” reaffirming its dedication to upholding a transparent and efficient justice system.
However, JUSUN emphasized the importance of full compliance with the terms of the agreement, stating, “We also hope that the other issues agreed upon in the MoU will be implemented accordingly, as this will further strengthen the judiciary and enhance justice delivery in Abia State.”
The strike, which initially began in October 2024, was briefly halted for the Christmas period before being reactivated on January 2, 2025, following stalled negotiations on salary adjustments.
With the new agreement in place, judicial activities in Abia State are now set to resume.
