Schools, markets, banks and other economic activities resumed across Nigeria’s South-East on Monday following the announcement by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) ending its long-standing weekly sit-at-home order. The directive, which had disrupted social and commercial activities across the region for years, was officially withdrawn with effect from February 9, 2026, signalling a significant shift in the group’s strategy.
IPOB confirmed that the decision to end the sit-at-home was issued directly by its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu. According to a statement by the group’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, residents have been urged to return to their daily routines without fear, emphasising that there is no longer any justification for staying indoors every Monday.
The weekly protest began in August 2021 as a demonstration against Kanu’s arrest and detention. During the enforcement period, businesses, transport services, schools and government offices across Abia, Anambra, Imo, Enugu and Ebonyi states were frequently shut down, significantly affecting economic activities and public life in the region.
IPOB stated that the new directive was aimed at restoring normalcy and ensuring children return to school while residents resume lawful business activities. The group stressed that economic, educational and transport services must operate fully and normally, describing the cancellation as a necessary step to improve livelihoods across the South-East.
The announcement has been widely viewed as a major turning point, as the sit-at-home protests had previously been associated with disruptions and, in some cases, violence linked to enforcement by criminal elements. Authorities and stakeholders have repeatedly expressed concerns over the humanitarian and economic consequences of the prolonged shutdowns.
Observers believe the development could help restore business confidence and social stability in the region if compliance continues. Analysts also note that the cancellation may ease tensions between residents, government authorities and security agencies while reopening opportunities for education, trade and transport services across the South-East.
