Magistrates threaten indefinite strike in Cross River

By Ike Uchechukwu

The Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Cross River State Chapter, has threatened to embark on an indefinite strike over unresolved welfare and security concerns.

The threat was disclosed during the association’s General Congress held on January 30, 2026, in Calabar.

A communiqué issued after the congress and jointly signed by the state Chairman of MAN, Godwin Onah, and the General Secretary, Solomon Abuo, stated that magistrates would resume an indefinite strike from Monday, February 9, 2026, if their outstanding demands are not addressed by the state government.

The communiqué recalled that the association had earlier resolved to commence an indefinite strike following a November 5, 2024, communiqué, but suspended the action after the personal intervention of Governor Bassey Otu.

According to MAN, the suspension was intended to allow the governor sufficient time to address their grievances.

The document, which was made available to journalists on Tuesday, was also copied to key judicial, security, and government authorities, including the Chief Judge of Cross River State, the Attorney General, the Secretary to the State Government, the Commissioner of Police, and the Nigerian Bar Association.

While commending Governor Otu for approving the immediate implementation of promotions and the regularisation of magistrates with attendant financial benefits, the association expressed concern that seven other critical demands remain unresolved.

The magistrates noted that the outstanding issues relate to welfare, security, and conditions of service, and have continued to cause hardship and dissatisfaction among members, with negative implications for the effective administration of justice in the state.

The association further disclosed that several reminder letters dated November 11, 2024, July 20, 2025, and October 2, 2025, were sent to the state government, but no concrete action has been taken on the remaining demands.

“In view of the foregoing, the Magistrates Association of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, has resolved to resume the suspended indefinite strike action after the expiration of seven days,” the communiqué stated.

For the avoidance of doubt, the association said the strike would commence on February 9, 2026, without further notice if the issues are not urgently addressed.

The magistrates expressed hope that the state government would act swiftly to avert the looming industrial action and ensure the smooth functioning of the justice system in Cross River State.

Vanguard News

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