Magistrates Suspend Strike in Cross River Following Chief Judge’s Intervention

Magistrates in Cross River State have temporarily suspended their industrial action, opting to give the state government a few months to address their grievances.

The decision was reached after a marathon meeting with the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Akon Ikpeme. This was confirmed by the Chairman of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria, Cross River chapter, Mr. Godwin Onah, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Calabar.

According to NAN, the judicial officers had resumed their strike on February 8, protesting poor welfare conditions and the government’s failure to fulfil promises made to them in 2023.

Mr. Onah clarified that the strike has been suspended, not completely called off. “We took the decision after a long meeting with the Chief Judge,” he stated. “We have received assurances through the Chief Judge. We are giving between now and September to address our demands.”

The association’s primary demands include the provision of official vehicles and accommodation for magistrates across the state. However, acknowledging the logistical challenges of building houses in every local government area, Onah noted that the association is proposing the payment of housing allowances as an interim measure. He added that they are also advocating for the payment of wardrobe allowances.

While no formal Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the government, the association expressed optimism that the Chief Judge’s intervention will lead to a positive resolution of the issues.