Strike: Federal, Appeal, Industrial courts shut in Enugu

Scales of Justice

The Enugu chapter of the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) on Tuesday joined the nationwide strike embarked upon by the union.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondents, who monitored the situation reports that gates leading in and out of the Federal, Appeal and Industrial courts in Enugu were under lock and key.

Some staff and lawyers were seen loitering outside the premises of the courts. NAN reports that security operatives were seen monitoring the situation with a view to forestalling any form of violence.

Some of the people who spoke with NAN expressed concern over the possible impact the strike would have on the judiciary. Mrs Edith Idike, a plaintiff, said that the strike would stall the judgment of her case scheduled to hold this month.

“I hope the action will stop because I came to court today to check some things regarding the matter,’’ she said.

A staff of the National Industrial Court, who pleaded anonymity told NAN they were fighting for the increment of their salaries.

 “Our welfare package is nothing to write home about. It is very discouraging.’’

Another staff of the Appeal Court, who pleaded anonymity, said that cases in the court had been put on hold because of the strike.

 Meanwhile, judicial activities were going on at the Enugu State High and Magistrate courts as they were in session at the time of filing the report.

A staff at the court, who requested anonymity, said that the courts were not part of the action except they were asked to join in solidarity with their colleagues.

 “I do not think we will join because it is for the Federal Government courts. Unless we will do that in solidarity with them to help press home their cause,’’ he said.