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The ongoing industrial action by the Osun State chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has sparked significant reactions, with both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the union issuing statements on Wednesday regarding the judiciary's condition.
This crisis, which has disrupted judicial activities for over 41 days, began when JUSUN members, led by Comrade Idris Adedayo Adeniran, initiated an indefinite strike on September 19, 2025.
The strike was prompted by grievances concerning delays in staff promotions for 2024 and 2025, as well as long-standing welfare issues.
In a press release signed by the Osun State APC Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, the opposition party criticized Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration for the deterioration of the judiciary in the state.
The APC stated that the extended strike exemplified the current government's failure, asserting that the lack of judicial proceedings for over a month constituted a violation of citizens' rights.
According to the statement, “The absence of judicial powers exercised in Osun State for the past 41 days signifies anarchy and a collective infringement of citizens’ fundamental rights to have their matters resolved by a court of competent jurisdiction.”
The party emphasized that the situation had rendered the judiciary ineffective, hindering access to justice and causing difficulties for legal practitioners and citizens whose cases remain unresolved in the courts.
Furthermore, it stated, “It is an act of governmental irresponsibility for any state executive to ignore the blatant violations of Sections 6 and 230 of the 1999 Constitution without any plan in sight to rectify the situation.”
The APC accused the Adeleke-led administration of being indifferent to the constitutional and security ramifications of the strike, claiming that lawlessness and disorder had taken hold as a consequence.
The statement also expressed concern that suspects were being held in police custody and correctional facilities without trial due to the complete halt of court operations statewide.
In response, the Osun State Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) addressed the APC's allegations, labeling the opposition’s remarks as political opportunism and hypocrisy.
In its own statement, signed by Comrade Idris Adedayo Adeniran, the union asserted that the strike was not politically motivated but a legitimate plea for justice, equitable treatment, and better welfare for judicial staff.
Adeniran remarked, “The APC’s criticism of the Adeleke-led government is ironic, considering their own failures in Osun State. The JUSUN strike is a desperate call for attention to our rightful demands, which include promotions for 2024 and 2025 and long-standing welfare concerns.”
The JUSUN chairman accused the opposition party of exaggerating the situation and urged them to engage directly with the judiciary authorities instead of politicizing the workers' grievances.
He continued, “We challenge the APC to provide evidence of any government that has done more for the judiciary in Osun State. Rather than politicizing this issue, the APC should encourage the honorable Chief Judge to interact with us and address our demands.”
Adeniran reiterated the union’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and called on the public to support their quest for fairness and improved working conditions within the state’s judiciary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the JUSUN strike in Osun State?
The JUSUN strike was initiated due to grievances over delays in staff promotions for 2024 and 2025, alongside long-standing welfare issues.
How long has the strike been ongoing?
The strike has been ongoing for over 41 days.
What are the implications of the strike?
The strike has resulted in the paralysis of judicial activities, affecting access to justice and causing significant hardship for legal practitioners and citizens with pending cases.
What is JUSUN’s response to the APC's allegations?
JUSUN described the APC's comments as political opportunism, asserting that the strike is a legitimate demand for justice and improved welfare for judicial staff.
