Magistrates in Cross River State have warned that they will resume their suspended indefinite strike on February 9, 2026, if the state government fails to urgently address unresolved issues affecting their welfare, security, and conditions of service.
The warning was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a General Congress of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Cross River State Chapter, held on Friday, January 30, 2026. The communiqué was made available to journalists in Calabar on Tuesday.
According to the association, the planned action is a continuation of an earlier strike that was suspended after the intervention of the state governor, who appealed for time to meet their demands.
The communiqué, jointly signed by the Chairman of MAN in the state, Godwin Onah, and the General Secretary, Solomon Abuo, recalled that magistrates had initially resolved to embark on an indefinite strike following a resolution reached on November 5, 2024. The action was put on hold to allow the government address their grievances.
While acknowledging the governor’s approval of the immediate implementation of promotions and the regularisation of magistrates — including the accompanying financial benefits — the association expressed dissatisfaction that seven other critical demands remain unresolved.
MAN noted that the outstanding issues, which relate to welfare, security, and general working conditions, have continued to cause hardship and dissatisfaction among magistrates, posing a serious threat to the effective administration of justice in the state.
The association further disclosed that several reminder letters dated November 11, 2024; July 10, 2025; and October 2, 2025, were forwarded to the state government, but no meaningful action has been taken.
“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.
The association clarified that the strike will commence on Monday, February 9, 2026, without further notice, should the government fail to urgently address the pending issues.
Copies of the communiqué were also sent to key stakeholders, including the Chief Judge of the State, the Attorney-General, the Secretary to the State Government, the Commissioner of Police, the Nigerian Bar Association, the State Security Service, and other relevant authorities.
MAN expressed hope that the state government would take swift action to prevent a breakdown in judicial activities across the state.
