The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has commended residents of Anambra State for observing a peaceful sit-at-home protest in solidarity with its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, while criticising Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo over alleged threats to close markets in response to the protest.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by spokesperson Emma Powerful, IPOB described the sit-at-home as a demonstration of the people’s commitment to justice and freedom. The group praised residents for their “courage and sacrifice” and reiterated its demand for the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
IPOB accused Governor Soludo’s administration of threatening market closures in retaliation to the protest, warning that such actions would amount to intimidation of citizens exercising a lawful and peaceful form of civil disobedience. The group specifically urged traders and residents in Onitsha, Nnewi, Awka, and other parts of the state to resume normal business activities, insisting that participants in the sit-at-home should not be punished.
The separatist organisation emphasised that sit-at-home protests are a legitimate form of civil disobedience aimed at drawing attention to perceived injustices, and urged government officials to prioritise dialogue and engagement over confrontation.
Concluding its statement, IPOB called on its supporters and the wider Igbo community to remain peaceful and disciplined, while reaffirming that the primary demand remains the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.