ENUGU, Nigeria – Despite the state government’s directive, residents of Enugu State have adhered to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, compulsory sit-at-home order on Monday, June 5, 2023, leaving roads, schools, banks, markets, and other public places deserted.
Governor Peter Mbah had declared “no more sit-at-home in Enugu,” effective Monday, June 5, 2023, urging individuals and corporate entities to resume full-scale business activities.
The governor stressed his willingness to engage in dialogue with people harboring genuine grievances to foster enduring peace and security in the state.
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He added that the order inhibits the creativity and productivity of the people.
Yet, it’s not rare for residents to hear of fatal incidents involving those who disobey the unofficial sit-at-home order.
As of now, it remains uncertain whether commercial activities will resume before noon.
The governor’s ban came with a call on President Bola Tinubu to release IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.
He stated that the sit-at-home order declared in the South-East to demand Kanu’s release had disrupted economic activities.
“Consequently, from Monday, June 6, 2023, there will be no observance of any sit-at-home in all nooks and crannies of Enugu State,” Governor Mbah declared last Thursday after his inaugural security council meeting with the heads of all security agencies at the Government House.
Promising stakeholders of an open dialogue, the governor urged Enugu residents to reclaim their sense of industry and pride of place.
The ban received backing from the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Godfrey Onah; the Anglican Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma; and the Enugu State Association of Presidents-General of Town Unions.
