Magistrates in Cross River State have resolved to embark on an indefinite strike from Monday, citing the government’s failure to address their long-standing demands on welfare, promotions, and working conditions.
The decision was announced in Bulletin Number 2, issued on Sunday by the Cross River State Chapter of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria.
The document, signed by the chapter chairman, Godwin Onah, and the state secretary, Solomon Abuo, directed all members to suspend official duties indefinitely.
The bulletin stated, “Sequel to our communiqué issued on November 5, 2024, after the general meeting wherein eight demands were made to the Government of Cross River State, we are left with no option but to embark on an indefinite strike effective Monday, December 9, 2024.”
The strike follows a series of warning strikes and letters to the state government, including a communiqué dated November 5 and a formal notice of strike issued on November 11.
MAN extended its initial strike deadline to November 22, hoping for the state government to initiate dialogue.
Despite these measures, the association lamented the government’s lack of action or willingness to engage.
A subsequent warning strike held from November 27 to November 29 failed to yield any results, prompting the magistrates to take a harder stance.
The magistrates reiterated their commitment to the strike until all their demands were fully addressed.
The bulletin added, “We are hereby embarking on an indefinite strike action from Monday, December 9, 2024 till our demands are met.
“Finally, all magistrates across the state are to ensure strict compliance with this bulletin by abstaining from performing all official duties, including court sittings, until further notice.”
