The United States government has alerted its citizens residing in Nigeria and those visiting, cautioning that the nationwide protests and strike called by labour unions may lead to not only a disruption of social services – transportation, shortage of supplies, et al –, but could also result in violent confrontations between security forces and angry protesters. 

There have been reports of clashes between police and protesters in Kano, Maiduguri and Lagos, where at least 6 protesters were felled by police bullets, while several others sustained wounds. 

The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Nigeria’s emergency message reads, “The Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have called for a nationwide strike beginning Monday, January 9, to protest the Nigerian Government’s decision to end the subsidy on gasoline.  Other civil society groups may organize protests to coincide with the general strike.  Protests and demonstrations varying in size and disruption have already occurred in parts of the country as a result of the decision to end the subsidy. 

We remind U.S. citizens that, even though organizers state their intent to stage peaceful strikes and protests, there is the potential that some events may become confrontational and escalate suddenly into violence.  We therefore urge U.S. citizens to avoid areas of such protests and to maintain low profiles.  Citizens should monitor news reports regarding the location of demonstrations.  During the general strike, U.S. citizens should expect closure of many shops, gas stations and banks.  Such protests may also delay or halt delivery of gasoline. 

Because of the potential for gasoline and food shortages, U.S. citizens should conserve fuel, avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure that they have sufficient food supplies.  U.S. citizens should ensure that they have sufficient food, water, and fuel to last at least three days in the event that protests cause the temporary closure of stores and suspension of other services.  Both domestic and international air travel may also experience disruptions, and we encourage air travelers to confirm their flights in advance.  Protests may also affect ground transportation, including on roads between international airports and major cities, and additional police checkpoints will likely appear on many roads. 

A similar general strike in July 2003 seriously disrupted public transportation and caused cancellation of some domestic airline flights.  Protestors also blocked roads in and around Abuja and in other areas.  Demonstrations occurred near government offices in Abuja.  Police responded by clearing the blocked roadways.  In some instances, police used tear gas to disperse demonstrators. 

Please review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, monitor local news stations for updates, and report specific incidents of targeted violence to the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos…”

Source: The Will