IPOB Declares Biafra-Wide Solidarity Lockdown February 2 Over Onitsha Market Closure

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared Monday, February 2, 2026, a Biafra-Wide Solidarity Lockdown across the five South-East states in protest against the closure of the Onitsha Main Market and in solidarity with affected traders.

The declaration appears to counter the directive by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, ordering traders to resume commercial activities on Mondays. IPOB announced the sit-at-home in a statement signed by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, describing the action as peaceful and voluntary.

According to the group, the lockdown is in response to what it termed the “tyrannical actions” of the Anambra State Government, including the temporary closure of the Onitsha Main Market and threats of extended shutdowns, demolition of illegal structures, and possible revocation of land allocations. IPOB argued that such measures amount to economic intimidation against traders who observe Monday sit-at-home in solidarity with its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

IPOB stated that the February 2 lockdown would involve a total shutdown of economic and public activities across Anambra, Abia, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, and other parts of the South-East. The group emphasised that the action is not enforced but a collective expression of protest and solidarity with Onitsha traders.

The pro-Biafra group rejected claims that Monday sit-at-home amounts to economic sabotage, insisting that compliance has been voluntary and rooted in shared grievances over Kanu’s continued detention. It also accused the state government of escalating tensions and provoking confrontation rather than engaging in dialogue.

IPOB called on residents to remain indoors, avoid commercial activities, and conduct themselves peacefully, reiterating its commitment to non-violence while pressing for the unconditional release of its leader and a referendum on self-determination.