Judiciary Workers Declare Indefinite Strike Following Resumption Of Suspended Osun CJ Ojo After Police Clash

Judicial staff across Osun state commenced an indefinite strike on Wednesday following a confrontation with police at the state High Court entrance in Oke-Fia. Officers fired tear gas at protesting judiciary workers and journalists while guarding the Chief Judge, Justice Oyebola Ojo.

The strike was declared by Gbenga Eludire, chairman of the state chapter of the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN). This came amidst tensions between Justice Ojo and the union over unpaid benefits and abuse of power allegations against the Chief Judge.

Earlier Wednesday, a clash broke out when embattled Justice Ojo resumed her duties, sparking a standoff as JUSUN leaders sought to force her exit. Police protecting the Chief Judge resisted the attempt and resorted to teargas.

Eludire stated that since Justice Ojo has declared war on judiciary staffers, they must withdraw services across all stations indefinitely. The strike starts immediately.

JUSUN began protests this week over the controversy surrounding Ojo, picketing on Monday before the confrontation on Wednesday. With both sides unwilling to back down, an ongoing shutdown of courts now looms.