April 13, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
The Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has strongly criticised the Abia State Government over the ongoing strike by judiciary workers, warning that the prolonged shutdown of courts is undermining justice delivery and threatening democratic governance.
In a statement issued on Monday, April 13, 2026, the group’s Executive Director, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, described the situation as a serious assault on the rule of law, noting that it has effectively crippled court operations across the state.
According to FENRAD, the industrial action has led to the prolonged detention of awaiting-trial inmates, halted civil and criminal proceedings, and denied citizens access to justice.
The judiciary workers, under the umbrella of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria), embarked on an indefinite strike on March 15, 2026, over alleged non-payment of leave allowances.
While the workers insist they are owed allowances, the Abia State Government maintains that the disputed payments will only be made after verification. The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN), argued that the allowances in question may already be covered under the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUSS), which includes a leave bonus component.
However, FENRAD rejected the continued delay, insisting that the situation violates constitutional provisions and judicial autonomy. The group warned that the ongoing closure of courts poses a direct threat to public confidence in the justice system.
“The continued closure of courts in Abia State is unacceptable. Justice delayed is justice denied,” the group stated.
FENRAD further cited provisions of the 1999 Constitution, including Section 121(3), which supports financial autonomy for the judiciary, and Section 6, which vests judicial authority in the courts, stressing that independence of the judiciary is essential to democracy.
The group also referenced past Supreme Court and Federal High Court judgments affirming the requirement for direct funding of the judiciary and protection from executive interference.
It urged both the state government and JUSUN to urgently resolve the dispute through dialogue, ensure compliance with court rulings, and reopen courts without further delay.
FENRAD concluded by warning that continued disregard for constitutional provisions and judicial orders would further erode public trust in government institutions.
“The Constitution is clear and unambiguous. Compliance is not optional,” the group added.
The strike remains unresolved as pressure mounts on both sides to reach a settlement and restore normal judicial operations in Abia State.
