Commercial and social activities in Enugu State were paralyzed following the sit-at-home order announced by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

IPOB reportedly announced the two-day sit-at-home as a means of hoisting the Biafra flag in the region and demanding the release of their leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently in Department of State Services (DSS) custody.

Vanguard correspondent, who monitored the situation in Enugu, observed that although some citizens came out, there were no available vehicles to transport them to their destinations.

Residents stated that they were afraid, lamenting that the sit-at-home order had affected commercial activities negatively.

Security operatives were seen stationed at major roads and junctions in the city. Schools and some offices were closed, while markets and major streets were mostly empty. Only a few residents, along with some tricycles (Keke) and private vehicles, were seen on the roads.

A trader at Ogbette Main Market, Obumneme Okolo, told Vanguard that although he came out on Monday morning, 21 October 2024 for business, he could not open his shop because shops and banks in the area were under lock and keys.

He explained, “Yesterday evening, I heard that Governor Peter Mbah said the two-day sit-at-home order by IPOB would not be held in Enugu.

“But when I came out this morning, there were no buses to take me to my shop. I was lucky to get a ride from a neighbor, but when I reached the market, only a few traders were present, and we were too afraid to open our shops for fear of being attacked.

“This is a disturbing situation. The government must act fast because we can’t continue like this. If I don’t sell in my shop, how do I feed my family?

“We are suffering, losing money and customers. The government and leaders of the South-East must engage the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu,” Okolo urged.

In a related development, a primary school teacher, Mrs. Veronica Odogwu, said she didn’t go to school despite there being no official shutdown notice from the school management.

“There’s tension in my area, and people are not willing to risk their lives after IPOB’s warning,” she explained.

“We even heard that some security personnel were shot yesterday in Anambra State. Given all this, no school management should expect us to come to school today.

“Some parents even called me this morning to inquire about the situation. And I advised them to stay home with their children because I doubt the school would open,” Odogwu added.

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