The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the full and permanent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East, a development that brings an end to a protest that has shaped daily life in the region for several years.
In a statement released on Sunday, the group said the directive followed instructions from its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who called for a return to normal economic, social, and educational activities across the zone. Residents were urged to reopen markets, attend work, and send children back to school without fear.
According to IPOB, the continuation of the sit-at-home was no longer necessary, stressing that the priority should now be the restoration of stability and normalcy in the region. The group said the decision takes immediate effect from Monday, February 9, 2026.
IPOB cautioned that any attempt by individuals or groups to enforce sit-at-home restrictions going forward would be contrary to Kanu’s directive, describing such actions as unauthorised.
The weekly shutdown began in 2021 following Kanu’s arrest and subsequent extradition to Nigeria to face terrorism-related charges. Initially observed only on days of his court appearances, it later became a regular Monday protest. Over time, the action was associated with widespread disruption, economic losses, school closures, and security concerns, as compliance was often driven by fear of attacks and intimidation.
Despite previous announcements by IPOB suspending the exercise, the practice persisted in many parts of the South-East. This prompted repeated appeals from regional governors and, more recently, firm actions by some state governments to restore normal activity, including directives for markets and schools to operate on Mondays.
With the new announcement, IPOB has called on residents to resume their lawful activities peacefully and remain vigilant, stating that the era of compulsory sit-at-home in the South-East has come to an end.
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