The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the cancellation of its long-running sit-at-home directive across Nigeria’s South-east region, a move expected to ease months of economic paralysis, school closures, and social disruption in the zone.
In a statement issued on Monday, 8 February 2026, IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, said the group had decided to end the sit-at-home order across the five South-eastern states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo. The directive, which was originally introduced to pressure authorities over the detention of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, had been enforced intermittently since 2021.
According to the statement, the decision was taken after consultations within the organisation and appeals from community leaders, traders, transport unions, and religious groups who complained of severe economic hardship caused by repeated shutdowns of businesses, markets, schools, and public services.
Emma Powerful said the cancellation was intended to “give the people of Biafra breathing space” and allow normal economic and social activities to resume across the region. He added that IPOB had taken note of growing frustration among residents and wanted to prevent further suffering of ordinary civilians.
The sit-at-home directive had been most visible on Mondays and on days when Nnamdi Kanu appeared in court in Abuja, with residents often staying indoors out of fear of violence. Although IPOB has repeatedly claimed the protests were voluntary, enforcement by unknown gunmen had led to clashes with security forces and attacks on defaulters in several towns.
Security sources estimate that the sit-at-home protests contributed to billions of naira in economic losses, particularly in commercial hubs such as Onitsha and Nnewi in Anambra State, Aba in Abia State, Owerri in Imo State, and Enugu metropolis. Schools were frequently shut, while inter-state transport was disrupted, affecting traders and commuters.
Reacting to the announcement, officials in Anambra and Enugu states said they welcomed the development and urged residents to resume normal activities. A senior official in the Anambra State government, speaking in Awka, said authorities would continue to maintain security presence across major cities to ensure public safety and prevent criminal elements from exploiting the situation.
Civil society groups and business associations across the South-east also welcomed the decision, calling it a relief for small traders, transport operators, and students who have borne the brunt of the disruptions. The Aba Chamber of Commerce described the announcement as “a critical step towards economic recovery” in the region.
IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, who was arrested in 2021 and is currently facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja, remains in detention. The group reiterated its demand for his release but said it would pursue its objectives through “non-disruptive means” going forward.
