Roads in Owerri, the Imo state capital were deserted as residents stayed indoors ahead of President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to the state.
As early as 6 am, security operatives mounted road blocks and barricaded major roads in the metropolis.
The measures might not be unconnected with the stay-at-home order issued by the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) over the president’s visit.
All markets, banks, commercial centres in the city were shut.
Heads of market associations had, on Wednesday, asked traders to stay at home on Thursday.
Residents, who spoke with our correspondent, expressed anger at the security arrangements put in place for the president’s visit.
Emeka, a resident of Ihiagwa, expressed indignation that he was not allowed to move a kilometre out of his neighbourhood.
The president commissioned the first phase of the Naz -Nekede – Ihiagwa road.
Emeka said, “So, how can we welcome the president if we are not allowed to go out from our houses?”
“Security agents, especially soldiers are not friendly at all as they bark and wave guns at people trekking.”
The president later landed at the Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport. (Daily Trust)
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