The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has officially announced the permanent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home across Nigeria’s South-East, ending a directive that has been in place since 2021.
The announcement was made on Sunday by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, who confirmed that the decision takes full effect from Monday, February 9, 2026.
End of a Policy That Shut Down the South-East
The weekly sit-at-home was originally introduced in August 2021 as a protest against the arrest, rendition, and continued detention of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.
For years, the directive led to widespread shutdowns every Monday, with markets, schools, banks, offices, and transport services often grounded across the region.
IPOB: “The Order Comes Directly From Nnamdi Kanu”
Confirming the development, Emma Powerful stated that the instruction to end the sit-at-home came directly from Nnamdi Kanu himself, leaving no room for ambiguity.
“The IPOB, under the supreme leadership of 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 tomorrow, Monday, February 9, 2026,” the statement read.
He emphasised that Kanu made the decision to allow normal life to return to the region, especially for children and business owners.
“This directive comes directly from Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu himself, who has once again staked everything on the line to ensure that our children return to school every Monday and that our people go about their lawful businesses without fear, intimidation or molestation.”
“No More Excuses” — IPOB Issues Clear Warning
The group further warned that there is no longer any justification for staying at home on Mondays, insisting that the era of sit-at-home actions is officially over.
According to IPOB, all economic and social activities must resume fully, including markets, schools, offices, transport services, and businesses.
“There is now no need, excuse or justification for anyone to stay at home on Mondays. This is the clear and unequivocal order of the Supreme Leader of IPOB,” the statement added.
Residents Urged to Resume Normal Life
With this announcement, IPOB says the long-standing Monday restriction has come to an end, urging residents across the South-East to return to normal activities without fear or hesitation.
The decision marks a major shift in the region’s socio-economic landscape and has already sparked widespread reactions both online and offline.
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