In a dramatic turn of events, judiciary workers in Osun state have declared an immediate industrial action, bringing the State High Court to a standstill.
The decision comes in response to a recent incident where police personnel stationed at the High Court entrance used tear gas to disperse protesting workers and journalists.
The unrest began on Monday when aggrieved protesters converged at the State High Court to voice their grievances against the alleged abuse of office and high-handedness by the state Chief Judge, Adepele Ojo. Their protest paralyzed activities within the court premises, causing a stir among legal circles and citizens alike.
However, tensions escalated on Wednesday when Chief Judge Adepele Ojo managed to enter the court premises, taking the protesters by surprise. Sensing her presence, the demonstrators, who had momentarily left the entrance gate unguarded, swiftly moved toward the area where her vehicle was being parked.
In response to the approaching protesters, police operatives stationed on the premises resorted to firing tear gas, causing a chaotic scene as protesters and onlookers fled in different directions, seeking refuge from the noxious fumes.
Following this disturbing incident, Gbenga Eludire, Chairman of the Osun State Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), addressed the media. Eludire expressed his outrage, stating, “Following the action of the police and the attitude of the Chief Judge, I, Comrade Gbenga Eludire, hereby order that workers in the sector should withdraw their services until further notice.”
The sudden declaration of an industrial strike by the judiciary workers has cast a shadow over the administration of justice in Osun state. It remains uncertain how long the strike will endure, but its impact on the functioning of the state’s judicial system is already being keenly felt.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders and concerned parties await further updates, hoping for an amicable resolution that will bring an end to the industrial action and allow the wheels of justice to turn once again in Osun state.
