On Friday, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NCL) announced labor union warning strikes for September 5 and 6. This is in addition to planned indefinite action in three weeks in protest of the government’s removal of a petrol subsidy, which has worsened the cost of living crisis in the region. This unrest follows an EU report released earlier this year, which questioned the transparency and democracy of the 2023 Nigerian general elections.

The NCL press release discussed the recent NLC National Executive Council Meeting, which assessed what they described as ‘hardships’ facing the citizens of Nigeria as a result of “the federal government’s failure to establish essential structures to address the widespread suffering in our nation.”

It argued that the government’s behaviour amounted to a deliberate act of neglect and disregard for engaging with national stakeholders. The NCL also highlighted that trade unions and their leaders had received threats from organizations and governmental affiliates. It argued that “The federal government has refused to engage and reach agreement with Organised labor on the critical issues of the consequences of the unfortunate hike in the price of petrol which has unleashed massive suffering on Nigerian workers and masses.”

The meeting highlighted a series of key players impacting the region and the work of the NCL. This included the police, Imo, and Abia State Government, certain aviation companies (including Airpeace Airline), marauders disguised as herdsmen terrorizing farmers and citizens across the nation and Minister Nyesom Wike.

Ultimately, it was resolved that the NCL would engage in a “total and indefinite shutdown of the nation” within 14 or 21 days until the Government addresses the country’s suffering and impoverishment.