IPOB Cancels South-East Sit-at-Home

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), led by Nnamdi Kanu, has announced the permanent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home directive across Nigeria's South-East region, effective February 9, 2026. This decision aims to restore economic and social normalcy, which had been severely disrupted since August 2021 due to the weekly shutdown. The sit-at-home order, initially a protest against Nnamdi Kanu's incarceration, led to an estimated N7.6 trillion in economic losses and numerous violent incidents, as reported by SBM Intelligence. State governments, particularly Nigeria — Anambra State under Governor Charles Soludo, had been actively working to end the practice, with Charles Soludo ordering market reopenings and threatening sanctions. The Nigeria — Nigerian Army has also assured security for traders in the region, indicating ongoing efforts to dismantle remnants of Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network. The cancellation is expected to allow residents to return to schools, workplaces, and markets without fear, marking a significant turning point for the region's recovery.