Ondo AG Says Ambiguity In Judgement Delays Implementation Of Judicial Financial Autonomy

By Ayodele Oni

As efforts are being made to end the two weeks strike by Judiciary workers in Ondo State, the Attorney General, (AG) and commissioner for Justice, Olukoyede Ajulo SAN, has insisted that ambiguities surrounding judgement on the financial Autonomy for the judiciary, have stalled its implementation.

Ajulo, who confirmed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been holding meetings with the striking workers, noted that “there are critical ambiguities surrounding the implementation of the judgment on financial autonomy.

The AG told journalists in Akure that “The Judgment obtained by some overzealous elements, while affirming autonomy, lacks specific directives on allocation ratios and the precise distribution of funds among various judicial bodies as well as other agencies of Government.

“This lack of clarity and the setting aside of some provisions of Ondo State Judiciary Fund Management (Autonomy)  Law, 2021 has led the government to seek judicial interpretation through a formal appeal, a necessary step to avoid missteps and ensure lawful compliance.

“What must be made clear is this: the government has neither acted in bad faith nor shown disregard for the judiciary. On the contrary, it has upheld the principles of the rule of law, opting for legal clarity rather than hasty, potentially unconstitutional action.

“This approach reflects a deeper commitment to enduring reform, institutional stability, and responsible governance, a path that ultimately benefits the entire justice system.

“Despite the ongoing legal appeal challenging the judgment, the Attorney General remains fully conscious of the vital role judicial workers play and the necessity of resolving outstanding issues through dialogue.

“He has already taken immediate steps to address the situation in a manner that will support the timely return of workers to their posts.”

On the strike by judiciary workers, the AG confirmed that “In fact, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa met with the leadership of the JUSUN to discuss and an agreement has been reached on a way forward in ensuring that their demands are met. And we are optimistic about the calling off of the strike.”

Ajulo revealed the Governor’s meeting with the stakeholders held on Monday 23rd June, 2025, where it was agreed that JUSUN should suspend the industrial action for further negotiations.

Ajulo said the state government was awaiting the JUSUN to suspend the strike after an agreement with Governor Aiyedatiwa.

Ajulo said, “the ongoing strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) is layered with political complexity and requires thoughtful navigation.”