Abia Government Nears Resolution Of JUSUN Strike, Settles Key Disputes

The Abia State Government (ABSG) has announced significant progress in resolving the ongoing strike by the Abia State chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), disclosing that most of the contentious issues have been substantially addressed and a final resolution is imminent.
Speaking at a joint press conference held at Government House, Umuahia, the Director General of the Strategic Communication Bureau, Barr. Onyebuchi Ememanka, alongside the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, said the government has maintained sustained engagement with JUSUN leadership.

Barr. Ememanka revealed that negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with both parties close to concluding discussions. He explained that one of the major issues—leave allowance—has been conclusively resolved following mutual understanding.
According to him, it was established during negotiations that judiciary workers on consolidated salaries already have leave allowance embedded in their earnings. The disagreement, he clarified, stemmed from the variation between the previous five percent leave bonus and the revised ten percent agreed in 2025. He noted that government has agreed to offset the outstanding five percent arrears predating the 2025 agreement.

On pensions, the government reiterated its commitment to due process, stressing that only verified retirees would be eligible for payment. He confirmed that verification of retired judiciary staff is currently underway.

Addressing concerns over financial autonomy of the judiciary, Barr. Ememanka emphasized that the state is in substantial compliance, explaining that funds are disbursed monthly in bulk to the judiciary, which independently manages its internal allocations through the office of the Chief Judge and the Judicial Service Commission.
He further clarified that the executive does not directly handle salary payments of judiciary staff, noting that the judiciary retains administrative control over recruitment, promotion, and remuneration of its personnel.

The government also faulted a recent communiqué issued by the Forum of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Chairmen in the state, describing it as outdated and not reflective of current developments. Barr. Ememanka dismissed claims that the Governor ignored requests for engagement, stating that the NBA declined a proposed virtual meeting with the Attorney General, while approval for a courtesy visit with the Governor is still in process due to official schedules.
He noted that the government had intended to maintain silence on the negotiations but was compelled to respond following the NBA’s threat to mobilize protests.

Corroborating the position, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma stated that the press briefing was convened to set the record straight and highlight government’s proactive efforts. He confirmed that JUSUN has now acknowledged that leave allowance is embedded in their consolidated salaries, aligning with the government’s longstanding position.
Mr. Ekeoma reaffirmed the state government’s openness to continued dialogue with JUSUN, the NBA, and other stakeholders to ensure a lasting resolution.

The development signals a major step toward ending the industrial action, raising hopes for the restoration of full judicial services in Abia State in the coming days.