The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has urged residents of the South-East region to ignore the purported sit-at-home orders declared for Monday and Tuesday. In a statement released by the group’s spokesperson, IPOB clarified that it had not issued any directive for a shutdown and warned residents against heeding calls from unauthorized sources.
IPOB emphasized that only instructions from its central leadership should be regarded as official. “We are not enforcing any sit-at-home on these days. Any such order is the handiwork of mischief-makers trying to create confusion and tension in the region,” the statement read.
The separatist group condemned the activities of factions and criminal elements who, in the guise of IPOB, have continued to enforce illegal sit-at-home actions, disrupting businesses, education, and transportation. IPOB reiterated that it is focused on peaceful self-determination efforts and warned individuals behind the false orders to desist from causing further hardship to residents.
Over recent months, unsanctioned sit-at-home orders have led to economic disruptions across the South-East, with many businesses closing in fear of attacks. IPOB’s leadership has repeatedly distanced itself from these orders, appealing to residents to go about their activities freely.
The group also reassured residents that measures are being taken to curtail the actions of impostors. “We advise everyone to resume their normal daily routines without fear. The safety and well-being of the people remain our priority,” IPOB stated.
Despite IPOB’s announcement, tensions remain high as past sit-at-home orders have been enforced violently by armed groups, leading to sporadic clashes and loss of lives. Security agencies have also vowed to protect residents and ensure law and order during these periods.
Residents are hopeful that the situation will improve, as local leaders continue to call for peace and dialogue to address the ongoing unrest in the region.
