The Osun State chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) took a confrontational stance on Monday, staging a protest by picketing the office of the embattled Chief Judge, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo. The agitated staff forcefully closed the Chief Judge’s office, barring entry and exit for visitors. Their actions were reportedly motivated by a perceived need to show solidarity with colleagues who, they claim, faced various forms of persecution under Justice Ojo.
Oluwagbemiga Olakunle Eludire, the Chairman of the Osun JUSUN chapter, addressed the media at the State High Court premises, emphasizing that their grievances were distinct from the state government’s decision to suspend the Chief Judge the previous week. The move by the Osun JUSUN underscores internal tensions within the judiciary, shedding light on concerns and allegations within the workforce that have prompted a visible display of dissent.
As the standoff unfolds, the focus remains on the resolution of both the internal issues within the judiciary and the broader suspension of the Chief Judge by the state government, highlighting a complex interplay of factors affecting the administration of justice in Osun State.
“We demanded from Justice Ojo why our wardrobe allowance from 2021 till date has not been released despite funding by the state government,” Eludire said.
“We want to know why the government directive on promotion and advancement made available by the Osun government was not used for the purpose approved for.
“We want to know why notable JUSUN members were unlawfully suspended without proper investigation against public service rules.
“We will not back down until appropriate action is taken on the matter,” he added.