LAGOS, Nigeria – The Ondo State Police Command warns that an ongoing court strike is undermining criminal prosecutions and heightening security risks across the state.
Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal tells reporters on Friday that the closure of courts forces officers to grant bail to suspects who should ordinarily be arraigned.
Courts in Ondo remain shut for over two weeks following an indefinite strike by magistrates, Grade ‘A’ customary court presidents and members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), protesting alleged failure to grant financial autonomy and improve welfare.
“The strike by judicial workers in Ondo State is really affecting us,” Lawal says. “In cases which should ordinarily be charged to court, we are compelled to grant bail.”
He warns that the situation carries risks if suspects abscond. “So long as you meet our terms and conditions, we will grant you bail… but on a serious note, the strike is affecting us.”
Despite the disruption, Lawal expresses optimism that talks between the state government and judiciary workers will yield results soon. “I know the Attorney-General met with them, and I believe by next week, they ought to resume sitting,” he says.
The police commissioner adds that the command is strengthening collaboration with the Amotekun Corps and the military to secure forests and border areas. He also commends Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for supporting security operations across Ondo’s 18 local government areas.
Security analysts warn that prolonged judicial shutdowns weaken deterrence and strain law enforcement, urging swift resolution to restore the rule of law.
Join the conversation