The Nigerian government approved the salary increment and new minimum wage effective January 2024, but payments have yet to be made.
The Nigerian federal judiciary workers have expressed frustration over the non-payment of the approved 25%/35% salary increment and the delayed implementation of the 2024 minimum wage.
According to sources who spoke to SaharaReporters, the delays have left many workers struggling with severe financial hardship, including difficulties in paying rent, bills, and providing for their families.
The Nigerian government approved the salary increment and new minimum wage effective January 2024, but payments have yet to be made.
A senior official at the National Judicial Council (NJC) confirmed that the increments would not be implemented this year, citing funding constraints.
The official noted, "Securing a supplementary budget is challenging, and as a result, the payment has been deferred until next year."
In a memo, the NJC clarified its position, stating, "We have already prepared the necessary documents for the payments. Please note that the NJC does not withhold payments and is committed to transparency."
Workers, however, are sceptical about these assurances. One anonymous worker questioned the NJC’s claims, asking, "If really NJC has not received funds to that effect, are they supposed to keep quiet until the funds are released by FG, or are they supposed to mount pressure on them?"
Another worker lamented the perceived inequality in treatment between judges and judiciary staff. "Recently, the judges' salary and allowances (300%) were approved, and they have started paying them without delay.
"But when it comes to judiciary workers, the story will be no money," the worker said.
Judiciary staff have also criticised the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) for failing to address their grievances.
"Do we still have effective representation from JUSUN? Are you truly representing the interests of judiciary staff members?" one aggrieved worker asked.
There have been claims on radio and other platforms that the funds were already released to the judiciary in July, adding to suspicions.
"We all saw it on the news that extra allocation has been given to cover 25%/35% salary increment and minimum wage too. So what then is the matter? Something seems to be fishy," another worker said.
The workers are urging the Federal Government, NJC, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to intervene immediately and resolve the issues.
They are also appealing to the Nigerian Bar Association, Nigerian Labour Congress, and civil society organisations to lend their support.
"We are calling on the Federal Government and the newly appointed CJN to come to our aid," a worker pleaded. "We deserve better. This delay is unjust."