Despite the recent arrest of Simon Ekpa, a controversial pro-Biafra leader, by Finnish authorities, the sit-at-home protests in Nigeria’s South-East region have persisted. Economic and social activities across the region remain paralyzed, as residents largely adhere to the sit-at-home directives.
The sit-at-home campaign was originally introduced by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to protest the detention of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Kanu was controversially abducted from Kenya in June 2021 and has remained in custody despite several court rulings declaring his detention illegal. IPOB officially called off the sit-at-home protests, but various factions, including one led by Simon Ekpa, have continued to enforce them.
Ekpa’s group insists that the protests will not end until Kanu is released in compliance with multiple court orders and UN human rights communications, which they claim the Nigerian government has violated. Pro-Biafra groups have accused IPOB members who oppose the sit-at-home of betrayal, labeling them saboteurs.
While some believed Ekpa’s arrest would mark the end of the sit-at-home protests, the opposite appears to be the case. On Monday, the protests gained momentum, with major cities across the South-East experiencing disruptions.
Chronicles Reporters learned that gunmen attacked operatives of the Anambra State Vigilante Service on Monday, setting their operational vehicle ablaze along the Amesi-Uga Road in Aguata Local Government Area. The attack heightened tensions, causing panic among residents.
The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a press release. He noted that police operatives responded promptly, rescuing an injured vigilante who was rushed to the hospital for treatment. Ikenga added that police secured the area to prevent further attacks and safeguard lives and property.
Meanwhile, private and mission schools in Anambra State that had been operating on Mondays have now suspended classes indefinitely. In a directive issued by the Catholic Education Council, parents were advised to keep their children at home due to security concerns. However, SSS3 students were permitted to attend special lessons on Mondays and Saturdays in plain clothes.
The suspension followed reports of threats by unidentified individuals to attack schools and buses operating on Mondays. Similarly, commercial activities were brought to a halt in many areas. Traders at Awka Main Market hurriedly closed their shops following rumors of an impending attack by gunmen.
The Anambra Innovation Week, which began on Monday, also recorded low attendance as participants were unable to travel due to security concerns. Despite the challenges, the event was officially opened by the state deputy governor, Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim, with the hope of better participation in the coming days.
In cities like Enugu, Abakaliki, and Owerri, economic activities were similarly subdued as residents feared for their safety. Businesses and markets remained largely closed, reflecting the ongoing tension across the region.
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