The nationwide industrial action initiated by the Nigerian Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress over disputes concerning a new minimum wage for workers in the country has halted all activities in courts across Lagos.
A visit by our correspondent to the courts revealed that most workers refrained from attending, complying with a circular issued by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) on June 1, mobilizing its members for the strike.
The circular, signed by the Acting General Secretary of JUSUN, Comrade MJ Akwashiki, stated that the industrial action would commence at midnight on Sunday, June 2nd.
It instructed all Vice Presidents, Chairpersons, and Secretaries of JUSUN to monitor their respective zones and ensure strict adherence to the complete shutdown of all courts and judicial institutions across the country.
At the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, Igbosere on Lagos Island, a few lawyers could be observed milling around, but none of the courts were in session.
At the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, lawyers and litigants were denied entry into the court, after which the gates were securely shut and padlocked. Some staff who reported for duty declined to speak on camera but mentioned off-camera that they would need to return home.
Some judges also showed up for work but were prevented from sitting.
It was the same scenario at the Lagos High Court, Ikeja and even the Tafawa Balewa Square Division with JUSUN executives ensuring compliance with the strike.
However, a few lawyers and litigants could be seen loitering around the courts, with many hoping there might be a reversal of the strike action.