Nigeria: Labor unions call for indefinite nationwide shutdown strike from Oct. 3 /update 1

Event

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have jointly called for an indefinite nationwide shutdown strike from Oct. 3. Participants are denouncing government policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, amid the ongoing cost of living crisis. The unions had previously issued a 21-day ultimatum to authorities Aug. 31 and staged a warning strike Sept. 5-6, along with protests. Other associations have vowed to join the action.

Unless averted, the strike may cause disruptions to various sectors, including transport, government services, healthcare, and air travel. Related protests are possible, particularly in urban centers such as Abuja and Lagos. Demonstrators could gather near major government buildings and march along roadways. Security personnel will almost certainly deploy to protest sites. Clashes are possible if demonstrators are overly disruptive, engage in acts of public violence, ignore police orders to disperse, or gather without permission.

Advice

Confirm all appointments and travel arrangements, including flights, until the action concludes. Avoid all demonstrations to mitigate associated disruptions. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Heed instructions from security services.