Despite claims of suspension, IPOB’s sit-at-home protests continue to paralyze southeastern Nigeria. Locals live in fear, businesses remain shuttered, and over $4.79 billion has been lost to economic disruptions.
Sit-at-home protests ordered by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have devastated southeastern Nigeria, with businesses closed, schools disrupted, and fear rampant across communities.
Although IPOB claims to have suspended the orders, many residents comply out of fear of violent enforcers. “We don’t necessarily sit at home because we support the IPOB, but out of fear,” said Imo resident Gift Chigo.
The protests—originally meant to demand the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu—have been linked to over 700 deaths and $4.79 billion in economic losses, according to SBM Intelligence.
Education and health services have also suffered. “We’re seriously lagging behind due to the IPOB’s order,” said King David, a teacher in Owerri. With investor confidence declining and trade routes disrupted, analysts warn the region’s competitiveness is weakening. “It’s quite sad that a generation of youth are being raised in the southeast in a climate of fear and ideological extremism,” noted Dengiyefa Angalapu of the Centre for Democracy and Development.