The Indigenous People of Biafra responded firmly to Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo. The group emphasized that the Monday sit-at-home represented a legal and peaceful act of civil disobedience.
IPOB’s Strong Reaction
IPOB released a press statement through its spokesman, Emma Powerful. He addressed Soludo’s threats to penalize workers who stayed home on Mondays. Powerful declared that the protest symbolized solidarity with their leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Moreover, IPOB argued that citizens exercised their rights freely. “The people are not tenants in their own land,” Powerful stated. He clarified that no governor could force people to leave their homes against their will.
Additionally the group described the sit-at-home as non-violent. “Monday sit-at-home is civil disobedience, not terrorism,” the statement read. IPOB highlighted that participants included businessmen, traders, students, and youths who chose to stay indoors voluntarily.
Governor Soludo’s Measures
Governor Soludo announced sanctions for teaching and non-teaching staff. He warned that failure to report for work on Mondays would lead to penalties. The Anambra State Government planned to implement pro-rata salary payments starting in February 2026.
Furthermore, the state commissioner for information, Dr. Law Mefor, shared details during a retreat in Awka. He explained that the move aimed to end the sit-at-home practice. Soludo sought to restore normal activities on Mondays across the state.
However IPOB viewed these actions as intimidation. “A government that turns peaceful protest into punishable misconduct is simply declaring war on the people’s dignity,” Powerful asserted. The group urged Soludo to protect citizens instead of punishing them.
Background of the Protest
The Monday sit-at-home began as a response to Nnamdi Kanu’s detention. IPOB initiated it to pressure authorities for his release. Over time, it evolved into a widespread symbol of resistance in Igboland.
In addition, the protest reflected deep frustration and anger. “The frustration in Igboland is deep. The anger is justified. The pain is historic,” the IPOB statement noted. Participants saw it as a sacrifice for justice and freedom.
Moreover IPOB maintained that they did not enforce the sit-at-home. “We do not force people to sit at home. But no government will force them to go out,” Powerful emphasized. The group called for Kanu’s release as the true solution.
Implications for the Region
Soludo’s policies sparked debate in the Southeast. IPOB warned against creating task forces to coerce participation. “If Soludo proceeds to establish any task force, then he has crossed a red line,” the statement concluded.
Therefore the exchange highlighted tensions between state authority and civil rights. Citizens continued to observe the protest despite threats. The situation underscored ongoing struggles for dignity and justice in the region.
It may open tomorrow for late payment and if it reopened they add additional charges I guess
