By Abasi Ita
Magistrates in Cross River State under the umbrella of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria have announced plans to resume an indefinite strike over unresolved welfare and security concerns.
The decision was taken at the association’s General Congress held in Calabar on January 30, 2026.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting and jointly signed by the state Chairman, Godwin Onah, and the General Secretary, Solomon Abuo, the magistrates said the strike would begin on Monday, February 9, 2026, if the state government fails to meet their outstanding demands.
The association recalled that it had earlier resolved to embark on an indefinite strike following a communiqué issued on November 5, 2024. However, the action was suspended after the personal intervention of Governor Bassey Otu to allow time for discussions and the resolution of the issues raised.
According to the communiqué, copies were forwarded to key judicial, security, and government officials, 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 acknowledging the governor’s approval of promotions and the regularisation of magistrates with associated financial benefits, the association said seven other critical demands remain unaddressed.
The magistrates noted that the unresolved issues relate to welfare, security, and conditions of service, and have continued to negatively affect morale and the effective delivery of justice in the state.
They also disclosed that reminder letters dated November 11, 2024, July 20, 2025, and October 2, 2025, were sent to the state government, but no meaningful action has been taken on the pending matters.
The association stated that it had resolved to resume the suspended strike action after the expiration of a seven day notice, adding that 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 promptly to prevent the industrial action and ensure the smooth administration of justice in Cross River State.