Abia Governor Denies Owing Judiciary Workers Amid Strike

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has strongly refuted claims that the state government is in arrears with members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN). Addressing the issue during an interdenominational thanksgiving service in Umuahia on Sunday, January 12, Otti clarified that the state had already remitted N283.2 million to the judiciary’s account for workers’ salaries. He further stated that an additional N27 million had been approved to make the total amount nearly N300 million, ensuring that judiciary workers would be paid.

The governor’s remarks were a response to the ongoing strike by judiciary workers, which was sparked by claims of unpaid salaries. Otti explained that his administration had paid N30 million to the union to cover members’ entitlements and had engaged with the Chief Judge and judiciary staff to resolve discrepancies in salary calculations. He mentioned that while the minimum wage had been reviewed, the leadership of JUSUN had refused to engage with the government on the matter, instead opting to make their own salary adjustments.

Otti also expressed disappointment that the judiciary leadership had failed to process the payments, despite the funds being made available. The governor emphasized that, as an independent arm of government, it was the judiciary’s responsibility to pay its workers once funds were transferred into their account. He reassured the public that his administration had fulfilled its financial obligations to the judiciary.

While speaking at the service, Otti also paid tribute to members of the Nigerian armed forces, acknowledging their sacrifices for the nation. He highlighted the dangers faced by the military and their commitment to national security, promising to work towards improving the lives of retired and serving officers. The Governor expressed his administration’s ongoing support for the armed forces and their families.

Ekekwe Duroha, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Legion, thanked God for the opportunity to celebrate both the fallen heroes and active personnel of the armed forces. He urged citizens to continue supporting the military through prayers, recognizing the hardships they endure in the line of duty.