Anambra seeks end to judiciary workers’ strike

THE Anambra State Government has sought end to the industrial action embarked upon by judiciary workers.

Governor Willie Obiano, through Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Solo Chukwudobelu, at the weekend, craved harmonious relationship with the workers, whose month-long strike has disrupted the operation of the state judiciary.

Addressing newsmen at the weekend against the backdrop of alleged threat by some officials of the Judiciary Staff Workers Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) to resist moves to call off the strike, Chukwudobelu wondered why the Union would insist on implementing an unrealistic promise by a government, which had increased the salary of state workers by 15 per cent in January 2015 and is one of the few states in the country that continues to pay salary regularly.

The state government’s position notwithstanding, judicial workers across the country, including those in Anambra, have continued to insist on financial autonomy for the third arm of government as provided for in the 1999 Constitution as amended.

According to Chukwulobelu, “less than nine months after a salary increase across board for all workers and further assurances to JUSUN during negotiations that its agreement would be met when the IGR improves, a union which should be working in tandem with the government is going on strike to enforce a unilateral increase for its members. What is really their motive?” He queried.

He also expressed surprise that some members of the union who were ready to resume work were allegedly being threatened by their leaders and assured that the government would protect those willing to return to work.