Ondo Judiciary Paralyzed as Magistrates, Customary Court Heads Embark on Indefinite Strike

Judicial activities across Ondo State came to a standstill on Monday as magistrates, presidents of Grade ‘A’ customary courts, and legal research officers commenced an indefinite strike over unresolved demands for judicial autonomy and improved welfare.

The strike was announced in a notice dated January 2, 2026, issued by the Coalition of Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts, and Legal Research Officers of the Ondo State Judiciary. Members were directed to halt all official duties, including court sittings, reporting to offices, or signing any court documents, either physically or electronically.

The coalition warned that the strike would continue until their demands are fully met. “This strike action shall remain in force until our collective demands for judicial autonomy and improved welfare are fully achieved. We will not compromise on these fundamental principles,” the notice stated.

Court premises across the state were observed locked and padlocked on Monday, confirming a total shutdown. The coalition called on members to maintain discipline, unity, and solidarity in support of the industrial action, assuring that updates would be provided as the situation unfolds.

The strike follows years of grievances by judiciary workers over poor working conditions and deteriorating infrastructure. On December 31, 2025, staff had flagged the dilapidated state of court facilities, citing frequent disruptions to court sittings due to rain and other infrastructural failures. They also lamented poor welfare packages, which they claimed continue to undermine the administration of justice under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The strike notice was jointly signed by the Chairman of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (Ondo State Branch), the Chairman of the Association of Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts, and the Acting Chairman of the Association of Legal Research Officers, reflecting a unified stance among key judicial officers.

With courts now shut indefinitely, legal proceedings across Ondo State hang in the balance, putting pressure on the state government to address the demands of the striking judicial officers.