In the coal-rich region of Enugu, Nigeria, a group of miners embarked on a strike in November 1949, demanding overdue wages that had been withheld by their employers. The miners were frustrated by the growing economic hardship they faced, exacerbated by the lack of timely payments. On November 18, the situation escalated when police were called to disperse the striking miners. Under the supervision of the British colonial administration, the police confronted the demonstrators, leading to a chaotic and violent clash. The police opened fire on the crowds, resulting in the deaths of 21 miners and injuries to 51 others. This tragic episode became known as the Iva Valley Shooting, marking one of the darkest moments in labor history in Nigeria during the colonial era.

The Iva Valley Shooting underscored the deepening rift between the Nigerian populace, particularly the working class, and the colonial authorities. It was not merely a labor dispute but a manifestation of the growing discontent against British rule. The miners’ demands mirrored the broader struggles against colonial exploitation and the quest for equitable labor practices. As news of the shooting spread, it sparked outrage among other labor groups and ignited a wave of protests against colonial policies across the country.

In the aftermath, the government faced considerable criticism and backlash from various sectors of society, including other labor unions and political groups advocating for Nigerian independence. The event significantly shaped the labor movement in Nigeria and intensified calls for self-governance. It also highlighted the need for improved labor relations and safety measures in industrial settings as part of the evolving narrative of Nigeria's path toward independence.