The Lagos Chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, is currently considering a plan to partially called off the strike embarked on April 6, 2021, to demand autonomy of the judiciary. According to Vanguard, JUSUN, Lagos chapter has concluded arrangement to write the national body of the association requesting permission to partially resume work.
The reason behind the move according to multiple sources is hinged on the ground that Lagos State Judiciary has been enjoying a greater level of financial autonomy compared to other states of the federation.
Asiwaju Shobowale Kehinde, Chairman of JUSUN Lagos, confirmed the move to vanguard but said the proposal is subject to final approval by JUSUN National Secretariat in Abuja.
“Yes, I can confirm to you that we are making effort to partially resume work. We have had series of meetings with stakeholders in the state and it is our belief that it is in the best interest to partially open the court. We shall communicate with our national body and seek approval. So, everything depends on what our national body says,” he said.
Citing a memo by Shobowale Kehinde on the matter, Part of it read; “We had many interactions on the strike situations with fellow State chairmen especially from South-West, South-East and South-South.
“Lagos JUSUN found out that it is only Lagos State Government that had shown concerns and seriousness with a listening ear to this JUSUN struggle. “At this moment, Lagos JUSUN have had four meetings with powerful Government official especially Mr Governor himself.
“From my position and privileges as JUSUN chairman Lagos, we are indeed lucky. Even the National leadership hasn’t made significant progress as Lagos JUSUN does at the moment. “Our axillary demands are been speedily looked into and results are manifesting. Though there is a national agitation for financial autonomy, this will be achieved nationally and all-state will benefit from it. “Our Union had the best assurances directly from Mr. Governor and the Chief Judge of Lagos State on improving welfare allowances for staff which had eluded us since 2014.
“When confronted with the content of the memo, Mr Shobowale told our correspondent that it was just an internal communication that is subject to the approval of the JUSUN National body.
