The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, to cease what it describes as harassment and intimidation of residents over the sit-at-home directive. This directive, observed across Southeast states, began after the arrest of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu on June 27, 2021, in Kenya and his subsequent deportation to Nigeria.
Governor Soludo recently warned that businesses that fail to open on Mondays would face harsh penalties, including the sealing of shops for up to one month. In response, IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful stated on Tuesday that the continued observance of the sit-at-home protest is voluntary and rooted in the people’s support for Kanu.
Emma emphasized that although IPOB has officially called off the sit-at-home, residents continue the practice as a form of protest and solidarity. He insisted that the only way to end the Monday protests is through Kanu’s release.
The statement read, “We, the great and noble family of the IPOB under the command of Nnamdi Kanu, wish to inform Governor Chukwuma Soludo not to underestimate the deep affection Biafrans in the 13 contiguous states, especially those in core Igboland and the diaspora, have for the leader of IPOB.”
He added that the people remain at home not out of fear or coercion but as a form of peaceful protest against Kanu’s detention. Emma also criticized the Southeast governors for failing to take significant action toward Kanu’s release, arguing that the people have been let down by their leaders.
