Edo Judiciary Workers Protest Against Autonomy Repeal

On Monday, Edo judiciary workers, under the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), locked out workers of the Edo State House of Assembly in protest against proposed bills aimed at repealing financial autonomy for both the judiciary and the legislature. The protest involved blocking the gate and displaying placards demanding the cessation of the repeal plans.

Last week, Sunday Ojezele, the Majority Leader of the Edo Assembly, proposed two bills: “A bill to repeal the Edo State Judiciary Financial Autonomy Law, 2023” and “A bill to repeal the Edo State House of Assembly Funds Management Law, 2023.” However, Speaker Idaiye Yekini clarified that the term 'repeal' was a mistake and that they intended to amend the laws to establish an agency for accountability. Orien Charles, Chairman of Edo JUSUN, stated that any amendment would effectively undermine the autonomy they fought for over ten years.

He emphasized their determination to oppose any changes that would threaten their financial independence.