There were unprecedented long queues in a few fuel stations that opened for business within the Enugu metropolis, even as other stations closed shop in compliance with the ongoing nationwide strike.

Major markets—Ogbete Main Market, New Market, Gariki Market and others—opened for business.

However, panic buying was observed in the market as most customers were seen stocking their bags with any food items and household consumables their money could buy.

Most banks within the metropolis opened for business, while most government offices—both federal and state governments—opened for business as well.

At one of the fuel stations, a resident who spoke to journalists, Emeka Nwabueze, said that he came to get some fuel in his car as the strike might linger beyond normal.

Mr Nwabueze said, “I am taking precautions as situations are hardly predictable today in the country. It is good I get this fuel to keep me running around, as I cannot afford to be held back due to a lack of fuel in my car as I have someone I frequently take to the hospital for medical check-ups.”

Another resident, Innocent Monday, said, “It is better to join in getting the fuel now in this queue before they tell you that it is N800 or N1,000 per litre in the black market due to the ongoing nationwide strike.”

Meanwhile, the NLC and Trade Union Congress have directed workers within their affiliate unions in Enugu State to join the ongoing strike.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by the Enugu State Chairman of the NLC, Fabian Nwigbo, and the state Chairman of the TUC, Benneth Asogwa, on Tuesday in Enugu.

“This is sequel to the resolutions of the Joint National Executive Council meeting of the NLC and TUC to embark on a nationwide strike starting from November 14, 2023. All workers under the affiliate unions of the NLC and TUC in Enugu State are hereby directed to proceed on an indefinite strike from midnight on November 14, 2023. The strike shall continue until we receive a contrary directive from our national leaders,” the statement indicated.

(NAN)