The Abia State Government has expressed surprise over a prayer session and protest held by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Abia State Chapter, on Wednesday, despite ongoing negotiations regarding unpaid salaries and salary adjustments to the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUS).
The protest, which took place in front of the State High Court in Umuahia, saw JUSUN members calling for divine intervention to resolve their salary issues.
The union had resumed a suspended strike on January 2, citing the state government’s alleged failure to implement appropriate salary adjustments based on the new minimum wage.
JUSUN Chairman, Comrade Chinedu Eze, explained that the strike was a result of the government’s failure to meet their demands. “We are having a prayer session for God to protect us, to keep us until the end of this struggle,” Eze said. “Whatever it is that is holding the funds from being made available to us, God will take care of it. If the government makes available the funds, our members will be paid, and the strike will be suspended.”
Union members, including Comrades Ukonu Edward, Stephen Idika, and Nwogu Glory, shared their personal hardships due to delayed payments and urged Governor Alex Otti to resolve the issue promptly.
In response, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, expressed shock at the protest, particularly given that a meeting had been held the previous night between JUSUN leaders and a high-powered government delegation, with plans to resume discussions later that evening. “It appears there is some level of insincerity or politics at play,” Kanu said.
Kanu further clarified that the state government had already credited the Judiciary account with 310 million Naira to cover November and December salaries, as well as the 13th-month payment. He emphasized that the government, led by Governor Alex Otti, remains committed to resolving the matter and prioritizing workers’ welfare.
“The leaders wouldn’t have negotiated with the government just last night, and then today there is a protest,” Kanu added. “There is an issue that needs to be addressed. However, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, is committed to workers’ welfare in the state.”
The government called on JUSUN members to support their leaders and remain patient as negotiations continue, urging an end to actions that could hinder the progress already made.
