The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ibadan branch has strongly condemned salary reductions imposed on Oyo State’s judicial staff, demanding Governor Seyi Makinde address the issue immediately. In a letter sent to the governor, NBA Ibadan Chairman Ibrahim Lawal criticized the alleged deductions as unacceptable and warned that failure to reverse them could trigger a shutdown of the state’s judicial system.
The association expressed shock over reports of pay cuts for magistrates, customary court presidents, and other judicial personnel, initially dismissing the claims as politically motivated rumors. However, after verifying the allegations, the NBA declared the cuts a grave administrative error affecting justice delivery. “The affected personnel are closest to ordinary citizens,” the letter stated, emphasizing that disruptions to their roles could severely harm public access to justice.
The NBA highlighted specific deductions, including reductions for deputy chief registrars (N247,831.61), chief magistrates (grades 1 and 2), senior magistrates, and customary court officials. It urged the governor to prioritize judicial stability, noting that Oyo State, like others in Nigeria, receives substantial federal revenue allocations.
The letter concluded by demanding a formal inquiry into the salary cuts and vowed legal action if unresolved. “The NBA shall defend the judiciary’s integrity,” it stated, warning of “dire consequences” for Oyo’s justice system if the deductions persist.
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