By Advocatenewsng.com
THE Judicial Editors Forum (JEF), one of the critical stakeholders in the Nigerian judiciary, that cover court proceedings nationwide, has waded in on the ongoing strike embarked upon by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), and urged it to seek immediate and fruitful dialogue with the high echelon of the judiciary and other concerned stakeholders in order to end the debilitating industrial action that has paralysed all federal courts in the country.
In a statement released after its emergency meeting in Lagos in response to JUSUN’s ongoing strike, and signed and made available to newsmen by its chairman, Mr. Samuel Popoola, JEF reminded the striking workers why dialogue is a better option as the judiciary is a very important arm of government which provides essential services to all Nigerians in the dispensation of justice.
JUSUN had by a circular of May 30, mandated all its chapters, to direct all their members to stay at home from June 1, 2025.
The union said that the action is to press home their demand for payment of five months wage award, implementation of the N70.000 minimum wage, as well as the 25/35 per cent salary increase.
On Monday June 2, Federal courts across the country were shut down following the strike action.
Lawyers, court officials, journalists, as well as litigants, who had come to court early, were forced to return home as they were all denied access into the courts’ premises.
JEF, therefore, urged all the parties to return to the dialogue room, and ensure that a fruitful settlement is achieved in the interest of the litigating public.
“The Judicial Editors Forum, as a stakeholder in the judiciary, lends its voice along with other well meaning Nigerians, to call for a peaceful resolution of the ongoing industrial action by JUSUN
“The demands are clear, but the most important things at this point is how to chart a way forward, and ensure a progressive outcome.
“Actions like this are not uncommon in a democratic society where the rule of law prevails, however, it is instructive that parties allow greater wisdom prevail, least we allow things fall apart.
“The experiences of both litigants, lawyers, judicial and non judicial staff, including visitors who were returned home out of frustration on Monday, is quite sad.
“In a democratic dispensation, the judiciary remains the only temple of justice and last hope of the common man, who literally “lays his life at the feet of the court”, while seeking justice.
“If the courtrooms remain closed, it also means that the expectations and/or hopes of many litigants, may be dashed.
“I hereby, call on the Federal Government and JUSUN, to return to the negotiation table, and make conscious efforts to find lasting solutions to the issues raised,” he said
JUSUN had vowed to continue the strike action until further notice.
At press time, the premises of the Federal High Court in Lagos, remained closed to judicial services, as no staff was seen around.
Meanwhile, the State High courts and Magistrates’ Courts are not affected by the strike action.
