The judiciary staff union of Nigeria (JUSUN) Abia State branch, has announced the suspension of its industrial action effective immediately.
The suspension follows the signing of a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Abia State government and the full payment of all arrears arising from the late implementation of the new minimum wage in line with the CONJUSS scale for judiciary workers, amongst many other issues.
The industrial action which crippled the entire third arm of Government in Abia State for over two months was as a result of the failure of the past Government in the State fulfilling undertakings it entered into with the workers as far back as January 2015.
The union in a statement on Thursday signed by the state chairman Comrade Chinedu Ezeh and his secretary Comrade Chibueze Nwachukwu commended the Abia State government led by Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti for his prompt intervention and commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the judiciary workers.
“We also appreciate the support and understanding of the general public for the emancipation of the judiciary.
“We extend our gratitude to the Honorable chief judge of Abia state, Hon Justice Lillian Abai, the entire management of the judiciary, Honorable judges of Abia state and all members of the Bench, the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and the learned silks, and the all critical stakeholders for their unwavering support.
“Finally, we appreciate the patience and resilience of our members who have remained committed to the cause of the justice and the rule of law.
“The suspension of the industrial action marks a significant milestone in our struggle for the financial autonomy and independence of the judiciary.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the judiciary is robust, corruption-free , and dedicated to delivering justice to all.
“We also hope that the other issues agreed upon in the MoU will be implemented accordingly, as this will further strengthen the judiciary and enhance justice delivery in Abia State”.
Recall that the Abia State government on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to honoring the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the (JUSUN).
This assurance was given by Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, during a press briefing on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
The MoU was reached after JUSUN embarked on a strike, and the state government has pledged to pay the salaries and entitlements of judiciary workers.
Kanu stated that the government is “irrevocably committed” to honoring the terms of the MoU.
Regarding the payment of salaries, Kanu explained that the necessary paperwork is being finalized, and members of JUSUN were expected to receive their payments by the end of Tuesday.
However, delays occurred due to the extensive paperwork involved in processing large wages.
In addition to the MoU, the Abia State government is also investing in the construction of modern courtrooms in 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs), which is nearing completion.
The project includes the digitization of courts to facilitate faster dispensation of cases.
