The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared "total and overwhelming compliance" with its sit-at-home order issued for Monday, February 2, 2026, across the South-East region, which the group refers to as Biafraland. In a press briefing statement released by Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB's Spokesperson and Media and Publicity Secretary, the organization hailed the observance as a powerful demonstration of unity, loyalty, and unwavering support for its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The directive, which called for a complete lockdown of economic and public activities, was issued in solidarity with traders at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State. The market had faced closure by Governor Chukwuma Soludo following reports of continued adherence to previous sit-at-home orders, which IPOB linked to broader grievances over Kanu's ongoing detention.
IPOB described the compliance as historic, stating: "This historic show of unity has once again demonstrated that the deep love, loyalty, and resolve of the Biafran people toward Mazi Nnamdi Kanu cannot be broken by threats, intimidation, or state-sponsored coercion." The statement highlighted widespread observance from areas such as Omambala to Onitsha and across the South-East, framing it as a reaffirmation of the region's identity and resistance to perceived oppression.
The group emphasized that the action remained peaceful yet resolute, serving as a clear message that Biafrans would not abandon their leader or collective demands for justice and freedom. "The love for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not a weakness to be envied or attacked—it is a strength that binds our people and fuels our lawful demand for justice and freedom," the statement read.
IPOB reiterated its commitment to order, discipline, and respect for institutions while vowing to resist any attempts at intimidation or subjugation. It pointed to Kanu's continued detention as reinforcing the legitimacy of such resistance. The release concluded with the affirmations: "Biafraland has spoken. The world is watching. And the resolve of our people remains unshaken."
The sit-at-home order stemmed from escalating tensions following Governor Soludo's decision to shut down the Onitsha Main Market for one week after traders reportedly complied with prior Monday restrictions. IPOB positioned the February 2 directive as a direct response to what it called "economic intimidation" and punitive measures against market operators.
Reports from various sources indicate varied levels of compliance across the region. In Anambra State, particularly around Onitsha, there was reportedly high observance, with many markets closed, schools not opening, and limited commercial activity. IPOB's assessment focused on this as evidence of broad support. However, in states like Imo, compliance appeared minimal, with markets, schools, and public institutions operating normally, and some residents expressing surprise at the directive or claiming unawareness.
The development has highlighted ongoing internal and external controversies surrounding IPOB. Kanu's legal team, including Barrister Aloy Ejimakor and lead counsel Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has urged vigilance amid conflicting narratives. Ejiofor described certain directives—including this one—as potentially fraudulent or unauthorized, advising residents to disregard them and warning of possible exploitation to sow division. Some reports noted denials from IPOB factions or leadership elements claiming the statement from Emma Powerful lacked official backing or had been compromised.
The sit-at-home practice, originating in 2021 as a protest against Kanu's arrest and detention on treason-related charges, has persisted despite Kanu's reported disavowal of continued enforcement in some instances. It has significantly impacted the South-East's economy, security, and daily life, drawing criticism from state governments and security agencies for its disruptive effects.
Authorities in the region maintained heightened alertness on February 2, with warnings against misinformation and enforcement of movement. The Nigerian government has long proscribed IPOB as a terrorist organization, though the group insists its activities remain non-violent and focused on self-determination advocacy.
IPOB's statement underscores its framing of the compliance as voluntary solidarity rather than coercion, while reaffirming demands for Kanu's unconditional release. As the situation evolves, observers note the persistent challenges of balancing separatist agitation, regional governance, and economic stability in the South-East.
