Strike Brings Courts in Benin City to a Halt

A standstill has been reached at the Federal High Court in Benin as a result of the ongoing industrial action that commenced on Monday.

According to reports the court premises was deserted and all activities were suspended. A staff member, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that she had arrived at the court, only to be instructed to leave the premises due to the strike.

She expressed uncertainty about the duration of the strike but hoped for a swift resolution.

Another staff member disclosed to the News Agency of Nigeria that all employees had been directed to return to their homes.

The strike, called by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, is in response to the Federal Government’s failure to release funds for the new minimum wage of N70,000. The union is demanding the settlement of five months of outstanding wages and the implementation of a 25/35 percent salary increase.

Meanwhile, the Edo High Court has opted not to participate in the strike, with proceedings continuing uninterrupted in all courtrooms. The Nigerian Bar Association has also weighed in on the issue, calling for an end to the strike in Osun. Additionally, the Judiciary workers had previously suspended a planned strike for two weeks, but it appears that the issues have not been fully resolved.