On this day in 1994, the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) embarked on one of the most significant and economically crippling strikes in Nigerian history. The strike lasted for almost nine weeks, from July 4 to September 1, 1994.
The strike was called to demand the release of M.K.O. Abiola, the winner of the 1993 presidential election who was arrested and jailed by the military government. Abiola’s arrest and the annulment of the election results had sparked widespread protests and unrest across the country.
The NUPENG strike had a devastating impact on the Nigerian economy, leading to fuel shortages, power outages, and widespread disruptions to businesses and daily life. The strike also led to the shutdown of oil production, which had a significant impact on the country’s revenue.
The NUPENG strike of 1994 remains one of the most significant labor actions in Nigerian history, highlighting the power of organized labor in the fight for democracy and human rights. The strike ultimately contributed to the release of Abiola and the eventual transition to democracy in Nigeria.
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