Kaduna courts shut down as judiciary workers begin strike
Judicial operations in Kaduna State have been halted due to an indefinite strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) over demands for financial autonomy and payment of long-standing arrears.The strike, which began on Monday, has affected courts at all levels, including Federal and State High Courts, Magistrates' Courts, Upper Shari'a Courts, and Customary Courts. Banners have been placed at court entrances announcing the strike.
According to JUSUN, the Kaduna State Government has ignored several appeals and correspondence, leading to the suspension of judicial services. Key demands include implementation of judiciary financial autonomy, payment of withheld salaries, and settlement of arrears.
The union had given the government an ultimatum, which expired on October 9, 2025, without response. The decision to strike was taken at an emergency congress on October 13.
Lawyers and litigants have been turned away from courts, and many are concerned about delays in justice dispensation, particularly for detainees awaiting trial. A senior judiciary staff member said the union had been patient, but the government's failure to honour promises made the strike inevitable.
The Kaduna State Government has not issued an official statement on the industrial action as of press time.
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