Ogun Judiciary Staff Issue 21-Day Strike Ultimatum Over Unpaid Benefits
The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) in Ogun State has issued a stern 21-day ultimatum to the state government, threatening to embark on an industrial action if their demands are not met. This move comes in response to the alleged failure of the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led administration to address outstanding promotion benefits and a controversial 10 per cent deduction from workers' allowances.
Details of the Ultimatum and Union Demands
In a letter dated April 8, 2026, the union warned that industrial action would result in the complete shutdown of the judiciary, effective from April 29, 2026. The letter was jointly signed by the state Chairman, Ajiboye Olanrewaju Tunji, and the Assistant Secretary, Adeyemo Adekanbi. They highlighted that the backlog of salary adjustments for staff promoted dates back to January 2025, emphasizing the prolonged neglect of these financial obligations.
The union's demands include:
- Immediate payment of all outstanding promotion benefits owed to judiciary staff.
- Reversal of the 10 per cent deduction from workers' allowances, which has been a point of contention.
- Assurance of timely salary adjustments for future promotions to prevent similar issues.
Failure to comply with these demands by the end of the ultimatum period will lead to a strike, potentially paralyzing judicial activities across the state.
Contrast with Governor's Gesture to Traditional Rulers
In a contrasting development, Governor Dapo Abiodun, on the same day, distributed 40 brand-new SUVs to traditional rulers in Ogun State. This gesture was aimed at enhancing their mobility and was presented during the statutory meeting of the Ogun State Council of Obas held at the Oba's Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun commended the monarchs for their crucial role in sustaining a peaceful atmosphere, which he credited for enabling his administration's "Building Our Future Together" agenda to thrive. He assured them of continued inclusion in governance affairs, highlighting the importance of traditional institutions in state development.
The Chairman of the Council and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, praised the governor's developmental strides and reiterated the council's support for policies aimed at economic growth and stability. This event underscores the administration's focus on fostering relationships with traditional leaders, even as judiciary workers voice grievances over unpaid benefits.
Implications and Potential Impact
The threatened strike by JUSUN could have significant repercussions for the judicial system in Ogun State. A shutdown would delay court proceedings, affect access to justice, and disrupt legal services, impacting both citizens and businesses. The union's action highlights ongoing labor disputes in the state's public sector, calling attention to issues of worker welfare and government accountability.
Meanwhile, the distribution of SUVs to traditional rulers has sparked discussions about resource allocation priorities. While the governor emphasizes the importance of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and supporting development, critics may question the timing and optics of such gestures amid unresolved labor issues.
As the ultimatum period progresses, all eyes will be on the Ogun State government to see how it addresses the union's demands and balances its commitments to various stakeholders.
