The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the permanent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East, effective from February 9, 2026.
The directive was disclosed by IPOB spokesperson, Emma Powerful, in a statement issued on Sunday. According to him, the order came directly from the group’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
IPOB introduced the weekly sit-at-home in August 2021 to protest Kanu’s rendition to Nigeria and his continued detention. The exercise led to the shutdown of markets, schools, banks and offices across the region on Mondays.
Powerful said the new directive removes any justification for residents to stay indoors on Mondays, stressing that all economic and social activities must resume fully.
“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 said.
He explained that Kanu took the decision to ensure children return to school and residents go about their lawful activities without fear or intimidation.
“There is now no need, excuse or justification for anyone to stay at home on Mondays. All markets, schools, offices, transport services and economic activities must resume fully and normally,” Powerful stated.
IPOB warned that any individual or group attempting to enforce sit-at-home after the directive would be acting against Kanu’s express order and would be treated as enemies of the people and the Biafran cause.
The group also alleged that some individuals were trying to instil fear or stage attacks under false pretences to force residents to remain indoors, urging the public to remain vigilant and law-abiding.
However, IPOB cautioned state governors against intimidating traders who may choose, out of personal conviction, to stay away from markets. It said no governor has the authority to threaten, demolish or forcibly shut down businesses under such circumstances.
The group added that any market renovation or redevelopment requiring temporary relocation must be carried out with the consent of stakeholders and with adequate alternative trading spaces provided.
Calling for unity, IPOB urged residents of the South-East to ignore fear and resume normal life.
“We therefore call on all our people across the South-East to come out, open their shops, go to work and send their children to school without fear. The era of Monday sit-at-home is over,” the statement concluded.
