IPOB Reveals what could end Monday sit-at-home

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have declared that the only way to end the Monday sit-at-home protests in Anambra State is through the release of their leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

The group also urged Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to stop harassing and intimidating residents regarding the sit-at-home order.

In a statement released on Tuesday, IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful emphasized that the protests are a reflection of the deep affection the people have for Nnamdi Kanu. He noted that although the sit-at-home had been officially called off, residents in the South-East continue to participate as a form of protest against Kanu’s ongoing detention.

The statement read in part: “We, the esteemed family of IPOB under the leadership of Nnamdi Kanu, want to remind Governor Chukwuma Soludo not to underestimate the profound love that Biafrans—especially those in the 13 contiguous states, core Igboland, and the diaspora—have for our leader.

“Dear Governor, please understand that the people observing the sit-at-home on Mondays are doing so voluntarily, not due to threats from insignificant individuals or coercive actions by any group. If you ask anyone, including those supposedly enforcing the order, they will tell you that the release of Nnamdi Kanu is the only condition for ending the protests. Those choosing to stay at home are doing it for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and no one else. Force will not put an end to this.

“Biafrans view this act of self-sacrifice on Mondays as the sole means to express their protest against the unjust and continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, which you, along with other South-East governors, are complicit in. The very individuals you are urging to abandon their peaceful protests are the same ones you and your fellow governors have consistently disappointed by failing to honor your commitments to seek Kanu’s release from the Nigerian President.

“In fairness to you, you attempted to appeal to the previous administration, but they failed to respond due to their deep-seated animosity toward the Igbo people.”

Nnamdi Kanu, who was arrested on June 27, 2021, in Kenya and subsequently extradited to Nigeria, is facing multiple charges, including terrorism and treasonable felony, largely related to his activities with Radio Biafra.

Despite the governor’s threats during his visit to Onitsha Main Market to seal any shops that remained closed on Mondays, commercial activity was severely disrupted across major markets in Onitsha, Nnewi, Obosi, and Ekwulobia in Anambra State on Monday. Many traders stayed away, with shops in key locations like Onitsha Main Market, Ochanja Market, Nkpor Motor Parts Market, Electrical Market, and Mgbuka Market remaining shut.