Residents in Onitsha, Nnewi, and other parts of Anambra State continued to observe the weekly Monday sit-at-home, showing solidarity with Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, even after his conviction and imprisonment.
Businesses, schools, banks, hospitals, and government offices remained shut, while streets were largely empty, reflecting widespread public support for Kanu.Some locals told Vanguard that the sit-at-home is a voluntary protest and not enforced by IPOB. They clarified that previous claims of IPOB-imposed lockdowns were misleading, noting that any criminal activity during past protests was opportunistic and not organized by the group.
Obed Nwachukwu stated, “Those expecting markets and businesses to reopen because of Kanu’s imprisonment will have to wait. We are standing in solidarity with him until he regains freedom.”
Chief Okwudili Okoye added, “The Federal Government’s assertions and the Abuja Federal High Court’s ruling lack credibility. The Monday sit-at-home will continue voluntarily to demand justice and fairness for Ndigbo. Normal activities will resume only when Nnamdi Kanu is free.”
Residents stressed that the protest extends beyond IPOB, serving as a wider demonstration of solidarity with Kanu and a stand against what they perceive as unfair treatment of the Igbo people.
