Biafra Remembrance Day: Abia State Shuts Down Amid IPOB Sit-at-Home Directive


	Biafra Day: Lockdown in Abia as residents obey IPOB order

Abia State witnessed a near-total lockdown on Friday as residents observed Biafra Remembrance Day, responding to a sit-at-home directive issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The directive led to the closure of markets, banks, schools, and government offices across major towns, including Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia.

Despite heightened security presence and patrols ordered by the state government, most residents stayed indoors, causing a standstill in economic and social activities until late in the evening. Major roads were deserted, with only a handful of tricycle operators plying empty streets in Umuahia.

Eyewitnesses reported that the usually bustling Isigate area in Umuahia was eerily quiet, with empty stalls and absent traders. Some shop owners, however, were seen lingering around their premises, keeping a watchful eye from a distance.

Speaking with newsmen, a resident, Ikechi Emelike, expressed satisfaction with the peaceful compliance, saying, “This day is not just about staying at home. It’s about remembering those who sacrificed their lives for the Biafran cause. Every family in the South East has felt that loss.”

In anticipation of the observance, security agencies ramped up operations across the state. Earlier in the week, the Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, convened a strategic meeting with key officers, directing them to ensure the safety of all police formations and government installations.

Police spokesperson DSP Maureen Chinaka confirmed that CP Isa mandated strict supervision and full implementation of an operational order. Officers at critical locations were instructed to stay alert, with tactical teams and emergency response units on standby.

The Commissioner emphasized a coordinated Operation Show of Force, led by Area Commanders and supported by other security bodies, to ensure public confidence and deterrence of criminal elements.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), through its Abia State Commandant, Akinsola Aderemi, also deployed personnel to monitor flashpoints across the state. He assured the public of robust patrols by the Rapid Response Squad and Counter-Terrorism Unit.

Commandant Aderemi stated, “Our officers are fully mobilized to safeguard lives, property, and national assets. We urge citizens to remain calm and report any suspicious activity. There is no cause for alarm.”

Despite the calm enforcement of the directive, many residents voiced concerns about the economic impact, calling on the Federal Government to address long-standing issues of marginalisation that continue to fuel agitation in the region.

As Abia observed this solemn day, the message from the streets was clear: remembrance, resilience, and a yearning for lasting peace and equity.

Source

Punch

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