The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the official and permanent cancellation of its Monday sit-at-home order across the South-East, effective February 9, 2026. This directive, according to IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful, comes directly from the group’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The sit-at-home order, initially declared in August 2021 as a protest against Kanu’s rendition to Nigeria and his subsequent imprisonment, led to the closure of markets, schools, banks, and offices every Monday. Powerful emphasized that with the new directive, there is no longer any justification for individuals to observe the sit-at-home.
The statement read, “IPOB, under the supreme leadership of Nnamdi Kanu, hereby announces to the entire world that the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East is officially and permanently cancelled as of Monday, February 9, 2026.”
He further explained that the decision was made to allow children to return to school and for the people to resume their daily activities without fear or intimidation. “There is now no need, excuse, or justification for anyone to stay at home on Mondays. All markets, schools, offices, transport services, and economic activities must resume fully and normally,” the statement continued.
Kanu, according to IPOB, has made it clear that any individual or group attempting to enforce the sit-at-home in defiance of his direct command would be considered an enemy of the people and the Biafran cause. “Such individuals will be pursued and confronted until completely defeated.”
The group also warned against attempts to instill fear or stage attacks to force people to stay indoors. “Any person or group identified as enforcing or enabling sit-at-home will be confronted wherever they are,” the statement said, urging the public to remain vigilant, calm, and law-abiding.
Additionally, IPOB reiterated that no state governor has the authority to threaten or forcibly shut down the businesses of traders who choose to stay at home in solidarity with their leader. The statement specifically mentioned Governor Charles Soludo, warning that any attempt to demolish businesses or close markets would be resisted. “Any renovations or improvements to markets involving temporary relocations must be carried out only with the consent of all stakeholders, with proper temporary trading sites provided before any work begins,” the group added.
IPOB also called for unity and vigilance, saying, “We must not allow our enemies to sow discord among us. We are one people, united by a common destiny, and our struggle is for freedom, dignity, and justice for all.”
In closing, the group urged all South-East residents to open their businesses, go to work, and send their children to school without fear. “The era of the Monday sit-at-home is over,” the statement concluded.
