28 Mar 2022 | 08:25 AM UTC
Nigeria: Students plan to block roads in Abuja from March 28
Student union calls for disruptive roadblocks across Abuja, Nigeria, from March 28. Clashes with security forces likely.
Event
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on students to obstruct road traffic in Abuja from March 28 to demand the resumption of academic activities amid an ongoing teacher strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Organizers encourage participants to continue demonstrations until officials address their demands. The number of protesters and the scale of the actions are unclear.
Gathering locations may include government buildings, the vicinity of education facilities, and the ASUU headquarters near the University of Abuja on Airport Road. Participants may also obstruct access to Abuja's Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV). Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all actions. Clashes between police and protesters are likely.
Context
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), representing university personnel, went on strike Feb. 14 after the government failed to implement several demands. Union representatives announced March 14 an extension of the work stoppage by two months.
NANS had also called for disruptive protests in recent weeks to denounce the government’s alleged inaction amid rising consumer prices and fuel shortages.
Advice
Avoid all protests and roadblocks. Depart the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Confirm road status and allow extra time to reach destinations, including ABV. Heed the instructions of local authorities.
