Sit-at-Home: IPOB Says People Cannot Be Forced to Abandon Nnamdi Kanu, Hails “Total Compliance”
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has insisted that its supporters and residents of the South-East cannot be coerced into abandoning its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, as the group hailed what it described as “total compliance” with the sit-at-home order observed across the region.
In a statement released by the group’s spokesperson, IPOB said the level of compliance recorded during the sit-at-home exercise was a clear demonstration of the people’s continued loyalty to Nnamdi Kanu and their demand for his release. The group dismissed claims that residents were forced or intimidated into staying indoors, insisting that participation was voluntary and driven by shared conviction.
According to IPOB, the widespread shutdown of businesses, markets, and roads showed that the people remain resolute despite repeated warnings and assurances from government authorities that economic activities should continue as normal. The group argued that the exercise was a form of peaceful protest aimed at drawing attention to what it described as the unlawful detention of its leader.
IPOB further stated that no amount of pressure, persuasion, or security presence would make its supporters abandon Nnamdi Kanu, whom it referred to as a symbol of the struggle for self-determination. The group accused the government of attempting to downplay the level of compliance in order to weaken the movement.
The sit-at-home order, which has become a recurring feature in parts of the South-East, has continued to generate controversy. While IPOB maintains that compliance reflects popular support, government officials and security agencies have often blamed the shutdowns on fear and intimidation, warning of the economic impact on the region.
Traders, commuters, and business owners have repeatedly expressed mixed feelings about the sit-at-home actions. Some say they comply out of solidarity, while others admit staying indoors due to safety concerns and uncertainty.
As the debate continues, IPOB reiterated its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that lasting peace and normalcy in the South-East can only be achieved through dialogue and justice.
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