The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has criticised the Anambra State Government following reports that several shops were sealed at the Onitsha Main Market over traders’ alleged failure to open for business on Mondays.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson and Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the group described the move by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s administration as heavy-handed and counterproductive, warning that it could worsen tensions within the state.
IPOB maintained that its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has repeatedly called for an end to the sit-at-home order and any form of violent enforcement. The group, however, argued that where people still observe the exercise, it is based on individual choice and personal sentiments rather than coercion.
The organisation further contended that sealing traders’ shops amounts to economic punishment against citizens who have not been convicted of any crime. It insisted that public behaviour cannot be changed through intimidation or threats but through engagement and trust-building measures.
IPOB urged Governor Soludo to reconsider the decision and reopen all affected businesses, stating that leadership should prioritise dialogue, justice, and respect for civil rights.
The group also expressed concern that the action could deepen mistrust between traders and the state government, urging authorities to adopt more conciliatory approaches to restore normalcy.
At the time of this report, there was no immediate official reaction from the Anambra State Government addressing the allegations raised in IPOB’s statement.