The Indigenous People of Biafra has declared the total cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home in the South-East, saying the directive takes effect from February 9, 2026.
The group’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, made this known in a statement on Sunday, noting that the order was issued directly by IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The sit-at-home protest, which began in August 2021 following Kanu’s rendition and detention, had led to repeated shutdowns of markets, schools, banks and offices across the region every Monday.
According to the statement, residents are now expected to resume normal activities, including opening businesses, attending work and sending children to school, as there is no longer any justification for staying indoors on Mondays.
Powerful emphasised that the decision reflects Kanu’s desire to restore economic and social life in the South-East and to ensure that people go about their lawful activities without fear or intimidation.
The group warned that anyone attempting to enforce sit-at-home orders henceforth would be acting contrary to Kanu’s directive and against the interests of the people.
It also alleged that some individuals and groups have been using threats and attacks to compel residents to observe the order, urging the public to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding.
IPOB further stated that state governments should not intimidate or sanction traders who voluntarily choose to stay at home, while stressing that any reconstruction or relocation involving markets must be carried out with the consent of stakeholders and provision of alternative trading spaces.
The group concluded by urging residents across the South-East to return fully to their normal routines, declaring that the era of the Monday sit-at-home had come to an end.
