The Anambra chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) on Monday commenced an indefinite strike over the state government’s refusal to pay the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUS).

The correspondent, who visited the high courts at Ekwueme Square, chief magistrates’ courts and customary courts in Amawbia, Awka, reports that there were no court proceedings.

There were no magistrates, judges or staff seen around the court premises except security personnel on duty.

Lawyers and litigants who came around were turned back as the entrance gates were locked.

Speaking to journalists, Henry Ezeoke, the state chairman of JUSUN, said the indefinite strike was to protest non-adherence to an agreement between the group and the state government in 2011 and 2015.

“The action resulted from the state government’s refusal to pay CONJUS as agreed upon in 2011 and 2015, respectively.

“We have explored all possible avenues, but the state government has refused to comply with the agreement on implementation of CONJUS.

“The union earlier issued a 21-day ultimatum to the state government, but it was ignored. We believe that downing tools is the only language the government will understand.

“Therefore, the strike will last indefinitely until the government meets the conditions and pending further directives by the union,” Mr Ezeoke said. 

(NAN)