The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), last week, called off its strike action that lingered for about two months. They embarked on the industrial action as a result of the government’s refusal to pay judiciary workers their full salary.
While we are pleased that courts across the state are now opened, it is important to note that the strike action should not have happened in the first place if the leadership of Ogun State was indeed committed to an efficient administration of justice, independence of the judiciary and respect for human rights. It is an aberration that courts are closed in a democratic society.
A great number of presumably innocent citizens were detained unjustly as a result of courts closures. The police, courts and correctional services were left helpless because little or nothing can be achieved when the courts are under locks and keys. Police cells were overcrowded and prison detainees who should access the courts for their liberties were left to their fates. Consequently, the closure of courts has aided gross human rights violations and the government seems unconcerned about the plight of victims of its failure. This is totally unacceptable.
We will hold Prince Dapo Abiodun responsible for all forms of human rights violations that occurred as a result of courts closure in Ogun State. We will never allow such an assault on human rights to pass without consequences. Those who swore oaths of office to protect the dignity and liberty of the people cannot continue to recklessly encroach on human rights through terrible policies.
Holding Governor Abiodun accountable will be a lesson to other political office holders who believe they can treat the judiciary with contempt and disregard.
The sacred nature of human rights and civil liberties will never allow us shy away from the inefficiency of the Ogun State Government. We will not fold our hands and allow state authorities to ride roguishly on the fundamental rights of our people.
FESTUS OGUN, ESQ
27/9/2021
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