The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced plans for a region-wide solidarity shutdown scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026. The group said the planned action is intended to show support for traders in Onitsha and to renew calls for the release of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement released by the group’s spokesperson, IPOB said the proposed lockdown would involve a temporary halt of economic and social activities across parts of the South-East and other areas it considers part of the Biafran region.
According to the group, the planned action is a response to recent measures taken by the Anambra State Government, including the temporary closure of the Onitsha Main Market. IPOB alleged that the closure and related warnings issued to traders were aimed at discouraging observance of the Monday sit-at-home protest linked to Kanu’s detention.
The organisation described the planned shutdown as a voluntary show of solidarity rather than a forced directive. It said the action is meant to draw attention to what it considers unfair treatment of traders and ongoing concerns surrounding Kanu’s continued detention.
IPOB also argued that the Monday sit-at-home action began as a form of civil protest aimed at calling for Kanu’s release and drawing global attention to self-determination demands in the South-East. The group rejected characterisations of the protest as economic sabotage, maintaining that participation is based on public support rather than coercion.
The group called on residents, business owners, and workers across states in the South-East region and surrounding areas to observe the shutdown peacefully by staying indoors and avoiding commercial activities for the day. It emphasised the importance of maintaining order and avoiding confrontations with security agencies or other groups.
IPOB further stated that it remains committed to what it described as peaceful advocacy, including dialogue and international engagement, toward achieving self-determination through lawful means.
The statement concluded with a call for unity among supporters and reiterated the group’s position that the struggle for self-determination remains active.
Signed:
Emma Powerful
Spokesperson / Media and Publicity Secretary
Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)
