NBA Optimistic JUSUN Will Suspend Strike Action Soon

It is almost two months since the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) embarked on an indefinite strike to fight for full financial autonomy for the judiciary.

While it is not clear when the strike will be suspended, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed optimism that the strike which began April 6, 2021, will be called off soon.

The NBA, in a statement by its President, Olumide Akpata, said there is hope in sight as recent developments show the industrial action will be suspended soon.

Since the industrial action began, court sessions and proceedings have been stalled, a development that has taken a toll on the justice system in Nigeria.

Mr. Akpata’s statement partly read, “The NBA leadership appreciates the sacrifices of its members and, once again, commends the efforts of its branches in standing firm, and putting pressure on state governments to obey the law in this regard.

“As the strike enters its eighth week, I am happy to inform us that there is finally some light at the end of this tunnel.”

Mr. Akpata’s statement added that an agreement between affected parties was reach on May 20, for implementation of financial autonomy for the judiciary across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT.

He noted that state governors had agreed to remit allocation for the month of April 2021, adding that, “JUSUN will suspend strike immediately upon receipt of the said allocation by the various state judiciaries.”

The NBA thanked its members for their steadfastness despite the hardship brought upon them by the JUSUN strike.