This article, written this summer, highlights the material
and human devastation provoked by the oil barons in Nigeria. They have sucked out
billions of dollars from the Niger Delta region without any benefit accruing to
the poor masses that inhabit the regions. That explains the violence and
constant conflict. It is an utter condemnation of the Nigerian bourgeoisie that
is totally incapable of solving any of the pressing problems facing the masses.
Once again, just as
the general strike was starting to have an effect, the leaders of the Nigerian
trade unions called it off. The regime was on its knees, but it has survived
thanks to the unwillingness of the trade union leaders to go all the way. It
highlights the need for a genuine fighting leadership. The Marxists can play an
important role in building this.
The contradictions and tensions in
Nigerian society have exploded and the class struggle is back
firmly on the agenda. Nationwide strike action has been called to
battle government proposals to raise petrol prices, increase the
VAT, and sell two state-owned refineries. After two days of solid
support for the strike, the struggle continues.