Court Activities Grounded in Ondo as Judiciary Workers, Presidents begin Indefinite Strike

Judicial activities across Ondo State have come to a complete standstill following the launch of an indefinite strike by magistrates, presidents of Grade ‘A’ customary courts, and legal research officers over unresolved demands regarding judicial autonomy and welfare.

The action was announced by the Coalition of Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts, and Legal Research Officers (Ondo State Judiciary) in a notice dated January 2, 2026. The directive, addressed to all members of the coalition, instructed that the strike take effect from Monday, January 5, 2026, with no set end date.

During the strike, members have been prohibited from performing any official duties or acting in any official capacity. Specifically, the notice barred them from reporting to offices, sitting in court, issuing, signing, endorsing, or authorizing any court orders, processes, directives, or documents, whether physically or remotely, for the entirety of the industrial action.

The coalition stated that the strike would continue until all core demands are fully met, emphasizing that issues of judicial autonomy and improved welfare are non-negotiable. Members were urged to maintain unity, discipline, and unwavering solidarity, with the assurance that updates would be communicated as developments occur.

SaharaReporters observed court premises across Ondo State closed on Monday morning, with gates padlocked and judicial activities completely halted, confirming the immediate impact of the strike.

This industrial action follows longstanding grievances by judiciary workers over poor working conditions and inadequate welfare provisions. Reports from December 31, 2025, highlighted concerns over deteriorating court infrastructure, with rain often forcing the suspension of court proceedings. Workers have also criticized the state administration under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for failing to address welfare challenges, which they say has hindered the effective functioning of the justice system.

The strike notice was jointly signed by the Chairman of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (Ondo State Branch), the Chairman of the Association of Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts, and the Acting Chairman of the Association of Legal Research Officers, reflecting a unified stance among key judicial officials in the state.