Governor Chukwuma Soludo announced the temporary closure of Onitsha Main Market for one week. He cited traders’ continued observance of Monday sit-at-home protests. These protests supported the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Traders reacted with anger. They staged protests and defied the order. Many waved Biafran flags and chanted in support of Kanu.
IPOB Responded with Shutdown Declaration
IPOB issued a statement through its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful. The group declared a complete lockdown across the South-East on Monday, February 2, 2026. This action showed solidarity with Onitsha traders.
The statement read, “The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the resolute and prophetic leadership of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, hereby declares a Biafra-wide solidarity strike, a complete lockdown of all economic activities across Igboland and wider Biafran territories, on Monday, February 2, 2026.”
Demands for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release
IPOB demanded the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu. Kanu has faced detention since 2021 on charges related to separatist activities. The group linked the sit-at-home tradition to calls for his freedom.
Additionally, IPOB described the shutdown as voluntary. It aimed to protest the market closure.
Emma Powerful stated, “We remind Governor Soludo and his Abuja sponsors that the Monday sit-at-home originated as a peaceful protest demanding the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the very cause that has galvanized global attention to Biafra’s quest for self-determination.”
Trader Protests and Defiance
Traders at Onitsha Main Market held massive protests. They demanded an end to the shutdown. Some hailed Kanu as “another savior and leader.”
Meanwhile IPOB accused the Anambra State Government of economic warfare. They claimed the closure suppressed protests for Kanu.
Protesters challenged Soludo’s authority. One video showed them saying, “Soludo, show me the law.” However security forces deployed to enforce the closure. This action heightened tensions in the area.
Regional Impact and Ongoing Tensions
The declaration affected economic activities across Anambra, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Imo states. Businesses prepared for the lockdown. Residents anticipated disruptions.
IPOB reiterated that no government action could end the sit-at-home protests. They tied it to broader demands for Biafran self-determination.
Furthermore the event underscored persistent conflicts. The Nigerian government continued to hold Kanu, despite calls for his release. The shutdown highlighted unity among traders and IPOB supporters. It also showed the ongoing struggle over regional autonomy.
