Osun Courts Roar Back to Life After Three-Month JUSUN Strike

After a tumultuous three months of striking, Osun’s judiciary staff resumed their duties on Monday, marking the end of the prolonged standoff with the state chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).

The strike, initiated in November 2023, aimed to address grievances regarding working conditions and other pressing concerns within the judiciary system in the state, underscoring the workers’ determination for meaningful change.

A visit by the News Agency of Nigeria to the High Court Complex on the Osogbo-Ilobu Road revealed a flurry of activity as staff returned to their posts in compliance with the executive directive to resume on March 7. Workers streamed into the complex early in the morning, while artisans diligently tackled tasks like trimming overgrown grass and cleaning courtrooms and offices. Although court sessions were not slated for the day due to ongoing cleaning efforts and logistical arrangements, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation for the resumption of regular judicial proceedings.

Reflecting on the resolution of the strike, a staff member expressed gratitude to the union for its steadfast advocacy, recognizing the positive outcomes achieved. Meanwhile, administrative officer Mrs. Juliet Alabi emphasized the importance of fully implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the union, the Osun judiciary, and the state government, urging swift action for the benefit of all judiciary workers. Amidst the renewed sense of optimism, lawyer Mr. Jones Olujimi echoed the sentiment of relief among lawyers and litigants, welcoming the reopening of courtrooms following the prolonged disruption.