Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has ordered the immediate and permanent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East, bringing to a close a protest that has disrupted economic and social activities in the region for nearly five years.
The directive was announced on Sunday in a statement issued by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, who said the decision was taken personally by Kanu, despite his continued detention. According to the group, Kanu instructed residents to resume normal life, reopen markets, and ensure children return to school without fear.
IPOB said the sit-at-home order no longer serves any purpose, stressing that the region must fully return to normalcy.
“The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the supreme leadership of Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, hereby announces to the entire world that the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East is officially and permanently cancelled with effect from Monday, February 9, 2026,” the statement said.
The group warned that any individuals or factions attempting to enforce the sit-at-home in defiance of the directive would be acting against Kanu’s explicit instruction. IPOB declared that the practice had come to an end and urged residents to remain law-abiding and vigilant.
Monday Sit-at-Home Order
The Monday sit-at-home was first introduced in 2021 following Kanu’s arrest and subsequent extradition from Kenya to Nigeria. Initially observed on days Kanu appeared in court, the protest later evolved into a weekly shutdown across much of the South-East.
Despite repeated announcements by IPOB suspending the action in the past, compliance remained widespread, largely due to fear of attacks and threats reportedly carried out by armed enforcers.
South-East governors had consistently urged citizens to disregard the sit-at-home order, citing its damaging impact on livelihoods. In recent months, some state governments adopted tougher measures to end the practice.
Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, had ordered markets and schools to operate fully on Mondays, warning that enforced closures would no longer be tolerated. He also threatened sanctions, including salary deductions, for public servants who failed to report for duty.
IPOB called on residents of the South-East to go about their lawful activities without fear or intimidation, insisting that the era of Monday shutdowns is officially over.
