Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has distanced himself from the ongoing strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN). He attributes the judiciary’s current paralysis to the Chief Judge.

Governor Adeleke Affirms Commitment to Judiciary

Speaking through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke affirmed his dedication. He stated his unwavering commitment to ensuring the effective functioning of the Osun State judiciary. The Governor dismissed allegations. He refuted claims that his appointees on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) were deliberately boycotting their duties.

Adeleke maintained that his appointees should not be blamed for the judiciary’s current state. Instead, he pointed to the Chief Judge’s inability to fulfill essential responsibilities.

Official Response to NBA Allegations

The Governor’s office issued a response to a letter dated December 8, 2025. This letter came from the Forum of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Branches in Osun State. It contained accusations against Governor Adeleke and his JSC appointees.

The official rejoinder aimed to correct these alleged misrepresentations. It also reaffirmed the Governor’s commitment to constitutional governance and the rule of law. Ensuring the judiciary’s effective operation in Osun State remains a priority.

Governor Adeleke expressed deep concern over the judiciary’s paralysis in Osun State. He reiterated that claims of refusal or boycott by government-appointed JSC members are baseless.

Chief Judge Blamed for Inaction

The statement clarifies that the judiciary’s paralysis is not due to inaction from Governor Adeleke’s appointees. It is rather due to the Chief Judge’s persistent refusal. The Chief Judge has failed to convene JSC meetings. He has also not implemented the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed during the last JUSUN strike.

For two continuous years, the Chief Judge has neglected to convene any JSC meeting. This failure persists despite repeated reminders. The Honourable State Attorney General and JUSUN issued several letters and formal applications.

The Governor’s office described this refusal as a serious dereliction of duty. It has effectively obstructed the proper functioning of the JSC.

The statement challenged the Chief Judge and the NBA to produce evidence. They were asked to show any letter where the Chief Judge either convened a JSC meeting or directed its Secretary to do so.

Past Intervention and Call for Responsibility

During the previous JUSUN strike, Governor Adeleke personally intervened. On February 6, 2024, JUSUN National President, Comrade Marwan Mustapha Adamu, met with the Governor. Adeleke appealed for a resolution to JUSUN Osun Chapter’s demands. The National President later met separately with the Chief Judge and his team.

Governor Adeleke remains committed to upholding the rule of law. He is also dedicated to strengthening democratic institutions. He seeks the swift resumption of full judiciary operations. The Osun State Government and its JSC appointees are ready to resolve all outstanding issues. This is for the greater good of justice and governance. They urged the Chief Judge to act responsibly and avoid “cheap blackmail and gimmicks.”