Benue: Coalition calls for urgent intervention to prevent judicial workers strike

The Coalition of Civil Society for Transparency in Governance has called for immediate intervention to prevent the Benue State Judicial Service Commission (BSJSC) from proceeding with a proposed strike.

According to the coalition, political actors are influencing the strike with personal interests, which could disrupt justice delivery across the state.

In a petition submitted to the Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the Chief Judge of Benue State, Hajia Jaiyeola Mohammed, the coalition highlighted growing concerns over the backlog of pending civil and criminal cases in the courts.

“Justice delayed is justice denied,” the coalition stressed, warning that a strike would deepen the existing delays in case resolutions.

Following an October 21, 2024 meeting where concerns of political pressure on the BSJSC were raised, the coalition emphasized the importance of judicial independence.

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The coalition’s Executive Director, Hajia Mohammed, stated, “Holding the entire state to ransom for the interests of a few is unacceptable. We urge the judiciary to investigate this matter thoroughly to prevent the strike, which would create severe injustice for those awaiting legal resolution.”

The coalition’s plea underscores the judiciary’s critical role as a guardian of justice, particularly amid political pressures.

As Benue State citizens await a response, the looming strike threatens access to timely justice.

The petition reads: “We are the Coalition of Civil Society for Transparency in Governance, a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to promoting good governance and accountability across Nigeria.

“Based on credible information and discussions from an October 21, 2024 meeting, we have reason to believe that the Benue State Judicial Service Commission is being unduly influenced by political interests to embark on a strike without substantial cause and with disregard for the significant backlog of pending civil and criminal cases.

“Your Lordship is aware that justice delayed is justice denied. The entire state cannot be held hostage by a small group for reasons unrelated to worker welfare.

“We, therefore, urge Your Lordship to use your esteemed office to thoroughly investigate this matter and ensure that the Benue State Judicial Service Commission does not follow through on this proposed strike, as it would cause grave injustice.

“The judiciary is the last hope of the common man in Nigeria and should remain impartial and untainted by self-interested agendas.”