Biafra Day: Anambra businesses close as police detain sit-at-home enforcer

On Thursday, businesses such as markets, schools, banks, and motor parks on several main streets in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, were shut down to observe Biafra remembrance day, declared by the banned separatist organization, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

By 9 am, the typically bustling Enugu-Onitsha Expressway was empty, with no people or vehicles in sight, and the city's well-known motor parks were abandoned.

Reports from Onitsha and Nnewi indicate that the situation there is even more severe, with residents staying home.

Numerous messages have been spreading online, allegedly from IPOB members, warning against venturing outside on May 30.

In the meantime, Anambra State police have reported the arrest of an individual involved in enforcing the sit-at-home directive.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson, issued a statement saying: "The Command is cognizant of the secessionist activities and encourages the law-abiding citizens of Anambra to ignore such messages.

For instance, on May 29, 2024, around 2:00 PM, police officers ambushed criminals at the Oba flyover in Idemili South.

The operation resulted in the capture of one member of a four-person armed group on motorcycles. The remaining three fled, sustaining gunshot wounds during the incident.

The police recovered a homemade Barreta pistol, four used cartridges, two mobile phones, and evidence of actions against the interests of the Nigerian government.

The police, together with other security agencies, have deployed forces to guarantee the safety and security of all residents in the state."

The police have also provided hotlines for state residents to report any incidents of violence.

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