Cross River Magistrates Begin Strike Over Welfare, Promotion

Magistrates in Cross River State have began an indefinite strike over the state government’s failure to address eight demands related to welfare, promotion, and working conditions.

The directive was contained in Bulletin No. 3 dated February 9, 2026, issued by the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Cross River State chapter, signed by its chairman, Godwin O. Onah, and secretary, Solomon Abuo.

Among their demands are the implementation of outstanding promotions, payment of arrears of financial benefits, and provision of official accommodation, among others.

The association claimed it made a series of efforts to resolve the matter, including writing to the governor and embarking on previous strikes.

“We are hereby embarking on an indefinite strike action from Monday, February 9, 2026, until our demands are met,” the association said in a bulletin signed by its chairman, His Worship Godwin O. Onah, and secretary, Solomon O. Abuo.

By implication  court proceedings across the state will  be affected due to the fact that  magistrates are likely to withdraw their services until further notice.

The association had previously given the government an ultimatum to meet the demands, but no action has been taken. The strike is seen as a last resort after months of negotiations failed to yield results.

Other demands also include payment of  N200,000 monthly imprest, payment of robing allowance, and renovation of dilapidated magistrate courts across the state.

A source close to the magistrate union alleges that the government has yet to respond to the strike notice, and it remains to be seen how the impasse will be resolved.