Judiciary workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, disrupted court activities on Monday as the workers commenced an indefinite nationwide strike in protest against the federal government’s failure to implement the ₦70,000 national minimum wage and a 25/35% salary increase under the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure.
The strike, led by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), has resulted in the complete shutdown of key federal courts in Abuja, including the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and FCT High Court. Only the Supreme Court remains in operation as of Monday.
Outside affected courts, JUSUN members blocked entrances, preventing staff, lawyers, and litigants from accessing the premises. A member of the union at the Court of Appeal, who declined to be named, warned that if no resolution is reached by the end of the day, the strike may be extended to the Supreme Court.
However, the Supreme Court and the National Judicial Council (NJC) have opted out of the industrial action. In separate statements, both institutions credited Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for ongoing efforts to resolve the issue and secure improved working conditions.
“The strike action does not include the Supreme Court or NJC at this time,” the statements clarified.
JUSUN had earlier issued a circular, signed by Acting General Secretary Moses Akwashiki, instructing members to commence the strike from midnight on Sunday, June 1, 2025. The union cited multiple failed negotiations, including meetings facilitated by the Minister of Labour and Employment.
“This directive follows unfruitful meetings led by the Minister of Labour and Employment. Therefore, as directed by the National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Executive Council (NEC), all members are to stay at home until further notice,” the circular read.
“Our demands include payment of a five-month wage award, full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage, and the 25%/35% salary adjustment. Solidarity forever.”
Despite widespread shutdowns, the gates of the Supreme Court and the NJC remained open, and two Supreme Court panels were in session when reporters visited on Monday.
Meanwhile, the NJC chapter of JUSUN confirmed it had granted a two-week grace period for the relevant authorities to resolve pending salary-related issues. In a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Joel Ebiloma, the chapter said the decision was made after a series of high-level meetings.
“We are giving the Minister of Labour and other stakeholders two weeks to resolve all issues with the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation. All NJC staff are directed to report to work during this period,” the statement said.
Ebiloma also praised the commitment of NJC Secretary, Ahmed Gambo Saleh, expressing optimism that the necessary funds would be released within the agreed timeframe.
Similarly, the Supreme Court chapter of JUSUN released a communiqué stating it would not participate in the strike. The communiqué, signed by 12 principal officers and led by Chairman Comrade Danladi Nda, emphasized that the CJN had taken proactive steps by presenting their demands directly to the Presidency.
“Joining the strike at this stage would amount to a misplacement of priorities and an exercise in futility,” the communiqué read.
As the strike continues, activities in several courts across Abuja remain paralyzed, leaving lawyers, litigants, and court users frustrated and uncertain about when normal operations will resume.