Owerri, the capital of Imo State, came to a halt on Friday as residents observed the annual sit-at-home order commemorating Biafra Day despite warnings from security agencies to ignore it.
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a proscribed separatist group, has long declared May 30 a day of remembrance for fallen Biafran heroes, urging people in the southeast to stay indoors. This year, the directive was widely observed.
Empty Streets, Closed Businesses
Major roads such as Wetheral, Douglas, and Tetlow were deserted. Shops, banks, schools, and even street vendors stayed away, with many citing fear of violence as the reason for their compliance.
Heavy Security Patrols
Security forces were heavily deployed across the state. Personnel from the police, army, air force, NSCDC, DSS, FRSC, immigration, and fire service conducted joint patrols to maintain order and reassure residents.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye warned that any attempt to enforce the sit-at-home would be met with firm action, urging the public to report suspicious activity via the emergency lines: 08034773600 or 08148024755.
Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma described the sit-at-home as “illegal” and called on residents to go about their lawful duties, promising robust security across the state.
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