Civil Societies call for return to dialogue to end Judiciary strike

By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo 

The Osun Civil Societies Coalition (OCSC) has called for immediate negotiations to resolve the ongoing industrial action by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Osun State Branch.

The group urged the Honourable Chief Judge of Osun State, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), and the leadership of JUSUN to immediately return to negotiation without any delay.

In a statement signed by OCSC Chairman, Comrade (Dr.) Waheed Lawal appealed to  all stakeholders to act swiftly in the interest of the state and its citizens.

Lawal said the justice delayed remains justice denied, saying the people of Osun deserve a functional, fair, and responsive justice system. 

The Chairman also noted that the continued closure of courts not only undermines access to justice but also inflicts hardship on citizens awaiting trial, litigants, lawyers, and other stakeholders in Osun State.

"While acknowledging the legitimate demands of judiciary workers for improved welfare, promotions, and professional development, the OCSC equally emphasises the sacred duty of the judiciary as the last hope of the common man."

"Credible media reports attribute the deadlock to unresolved issues bordering on delayed staff promotions (2024–2025), non-sponsorship of training at the National Judicial Institute, and welfare-related grievances, compounded by limited communication between the JUSUN leadership and the judicial management under the Chief Judge, Justice Adepele Ojo." He alleged.

The statement further read: "As a coalition devoted to good governance, transparency, and justice, our primary concern is to ensure a fair, inclusive, and lasting resolution that preserves the integrity of the judiciary and guarantees that the rights of all parties are not infringed upon."

"We urge the Osun State Government and the Nigerian Bar Association, Osogbo Branch, to provide moral and administrative support for a neutral mediation platform, in accordance with Section 5(2) of the Trade Disputes Act, aimed at restoring industrial harmony within the judiciary."

"Affirms that the Osun Civil Societies Coalition is ready to serve as an observer, facilitator, or mediator whenever both sides are willing to engage in constructive dialogue, as permitted under Section 9 of the Trade Disputes Act, which recognises the involvement of neutral civic bodies in dispute resolution."