Nigeria: Bus drivers to stage seven-day boycott, protest in Lagos starting Oct. 31

Event

Commercial bus drivers affiliated with the Joint Drivers Welfare Association of Nigeria (JDWAN) plan to launch a seven-day work stoppage and protest campaign in Lago starting Oct. 31. The purpose of the action is to call authorities attention to the plight of drivers who are often forced to make extorted payments to members of local gangs near parking lots, garages, bus stops, and other facilities used along their routes. The action will begin with a protest rally at the Alausa secretariat beginning at 08:00 Oct. 31. Although organizers have not announced specific plans for additional gatherings, participating drivers will likely stage further demonstrations at various locations in the city through at least Nov. 6.

Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are likely near any such actions that may materialize. Clashes between protesting drivers and police, as well as isolated incidents of violence with persons perceived to engage in extortion of drivers, cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Allow extra time to reach destinations in Lagos for the duration of the drivers' protest campaign. Consider alternative modes of transportation. Avoid all protests and roadblocks. If violence erupts, leave the area immediately. Heed the instructions of local authorities.