By Muhammad Mamman
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a sit-at-home order across the South-East region on February 2, accusing Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, of misrepresenting the group and downplaying insecurity in the region.
In a statement released on Sunday, IPOB said the directive was issued to mark a significant date it did not fully disclose, insisting that residents of the South-East must comply by staying indoors. The group warned that the action was a form of protest against what it described as persistent injustice and political mismanagement affecting the region.
IPOB faulted Governor Soludo for recent comments in which he allegedly blamed criminal elements for violence in the South-East while distancing the unrest from the group’s activities. According to IPOB, the governor’s position was “misleading” and failed to address what it called the root causes of insecurity in the zone.
The separatist group accused the Anambra State government of aligning with the Federal Government to “demonise” its struggle, claiming that such narratives had worsened tensions and eroded public trust.
Meanwhile, security agencies have yet to officially respond to the announcement. Past sit-at-home orders in the region have often disrupted economic activities, shut down schools and businesses, and heightened security concerns.
Residents across the five South-East states remain uncertain about the level of compliance the directive will attract, amid repeated calls by state governments and security authorities for normal economic activities to continue.
