Imo residents in 27 local councils of state were asked to follow yet another unofficial sit-at-home order for “fear of the unknown” yesterday, despite activities returning in full swing only a few days ago.
Some residents told The Guardian that they were following the order to remain safe from unknown attackers who purportedly kill and destroy property.
In Owerri, banks, markets, schools and shops were closed. School children were asked to remain close to streets nearer to their homes. This led to roads being empty, with only a few vehicles passing by intra-city in fear.
At the same time, Enugu residents woke up to the usual sit-at-home order from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Their demand remains unchanged — their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, must be released by the State Security Services.
On Saturday, IPOB’s Directorate of State cancelled the previously ongoing protest as Igbo elders and leaders appealed to let the Anambra State governorship election commence well.
Like Imo, shops, motor parks, banks, markets, offices, courts, schools and filling stations, even restaurants were closed. Streets, roads, and highways were deserted.
It is unclear whether the sit-at-home order would continue throughout the week, precisely like the week before, or simply for one day.
There was a security patrol on the roads and streets, accompanied by an armoured police vehicle. So far, there have been no reports of any security breach by the IPOB.
