The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared Monday, February 2, 2026, as a “Biafra‑Wide Solidarity Lockdown”, urging residents and businesses across the five South‑East states to observe a sit‑at‑home in protest against government actions in Onitsha, Anambra State. The group said the lockdown is a peaceful expression of solidarity with traders affected by recent state directives and a continuation of its campaign for self‑determination.
In a statement issued late Friday and signed by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the organisation described the upcoming action as a non‑violent protest against what it termed “economic intimidation” and “tyrannical actions” by the Anambra State Government under Governor Charles Soludo.
IPOB’s statement asserts that traders in Onitsha Main Market have faced “unjust threats and punitive closures” by the government after repeatedly observing Monday sit‑at‑home orders that have been central to the group’s campaign. The organisation said the February 2 lockdown is designed to show unity and resistance to policies it believes undermine local livelihoods.
In the statement, IPOB said, “We call on all Biafrans to stay at home in peace and solidarity. This is not enforcement; it is a collective will to stand against oppression and economic coercion.”
The group reiterated its core demand: the unconditional release of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. IPOB described the strike as a peaceful demonstration of the region’s resolve, saying: “Let it be known that Biafra stands firm. Our struggle is peaceful, and our unity will not be broken by threats or intimidation.”
While emphasizing non‑violence, the statement also warned against any form of provocation, urging residents to avoid actions that could escalate tensions. IPOB said its security protocols will be in place to ensure that the protest remains peaceful and orderly.
The announcement follows an escalation in rhetoric between IPOB and the Anambra State Government after Governor Soludo’s directive allowing traders to resume business on Mondays. The governor’s office had described the regular Monday shutdowns as disruptive to the economy and public welfare. IPOB views these directives as punitive and dismissive of community concerns.
In response to the government’s actions, IPOB’s statement noted that “the constant threats against traders’ properties and livelihoods have forced this collective response.” It said the sit‑at‑home is aimed at demonstrating “that economic activity cannot be dictated by force or fear.”
The upcoming lockdown is expected to affect commercial, educational, and transportation activities across the South‑East. Residents have been urged to remain indoors and comply peacefully, with IPOB assuring that essential services and individual safety should be respected at all times.
Across the region, reactions are mixed. Some market operators and community leaders have expressed support for peaceful protests, while others urge dialogue and caution, emphasizing the need to avoid disruptions that could hurt local economies.
In a related development, some Igbo traditional and civic leaders have called for calm and constructive engagement between governments and traders to resolve the underlying disputes without resorting to shutdowns. Their appeal stresses the importance of maintaining peace and protecting economic stability.
The declaration of a Biafra‑wide sit‑at‑home on February 2 marks a continuation of IPOB’s strategy of civil resistance. How widely the lockdown will be observed — and its impact on daily life and commerce across the South‑East — will become clear as the date approaches.
