Courts across Kaduna State were shut down on Monday as members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) commenced an indefinite strike to demand the implementation of financial autonomy for the judiciary and the settlement of outstanding entitlements.
The strike affected all levels of courts, including the Federal and State High Courts, Upper Shari’a Court, Customary Court, and Magistrates’ Courts, many of which displayed banners reading, “JUSUN Kaduna State chapter embarks on strike.”
At the Shari’a Court in Magajin Gari, courtrooms remained closed, but a few staff members were seen attending to individuals seeking affidavits. This partial service reflects the union’s commitment to the strike while still providing minimal assistance to the public.
The strike follows a notice issued on October 23, signed by the union’s secretary, Nasiru Haruna. JUSUN accused the Kaduna State government of ignoring several correspondences, including a demand letter dated September 1 and an ultimatum dated October 9, 2025. According to the union, all efforts to resolve the issues amicably were unsuccessful, leaving no option but industrial action.
JUSUN’s key demands include full implementation of financial autonomy for the judiciary in line with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), payment of withheld salaries for April and May 2021, implementation of consequential salary adjustments, and settlement of nine years’ arrears of a 20 percent salary component from 2016 to date. Other demands cover outstanding leave and transport grants, as well as outfit allowances for judiciary staff.
The decision to proceed with the strike was made at an emergency meeting on October 23, 2025. JUSUN directed all staff to withdraw their services and ensure that all courts and judicial units, including High Courts, Shari’a Courts, Customary Courts, and other offices across the state, strictly comply with the strike directive.
The strike is expected to halt judicial proceedings across Kaduna State, affecting both civil and criminal cases until the government addresses the union’s grievances. Legal practitioners and the public are awaiting a response to restore normalcy in the judiciary.
