On Thursday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) took action by blocking both the entry and exit points of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The military thwarted their attempt to enter the airport at the checkpoint, leading to heightened tensions.
Frustrated by the military's interference, the protesters obstructed the airport's entry and exit routes, resulting in significant vehicular congestion on both sides. This situation compelled travelers to navigate their way to the airport on foot.
This development followed the NLC's directive, prompting aviation industry unions to suspend all flights to Owerri from airports nationwide on Wednesday. The decision was made in response to the brutalization of NLC President Joe Ajaero in Imo last week, which prompted the NLC and TUC to declare a nationwide strike.
The aviation unions, including the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP), the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), adhered to the directive, blocking flights to Imo State.
