A call for a sit-at-home protest across Nigeria's South-East region, triggered by the conviction and transfer of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, was met with a mixed and largely calm response on Monday, November 24, 2025.
Regional Calm Amidst Viral Call for Protest
The order originated from a viral social media video circulated over the weekend by a middle-aged IPOB member believed to be based in Lagos. It demanded a full shutdown of activities across 'Biafra land' starting Monday. Despite the widespread circulation of the video, the region largely remained peaceful as residents made individual choices about compliance.
A State-by-State Breakdown of Compliance
The level of adherence to the sit-at-home order varied significantly from state to state. In Enugu State, normal life proceeded largely uninterrupted. Schools, banks, and markets operated at full capacity throughout the day. The main exceptions were federal government workers, who have historically stayed home on Mondays, and some commercial motor parks.
Abia State presented a different picture. Residents in Umuahia, Aba, and other areas largely stayed indoors, with many choosing not to open for business due to fear of potential attacks. While some banks opened and transporters were seen operating, the streets experienced significantly less traffic than usual.
Anambra State saw the highest level of compliance in several areas. Our correspondent monitoring the situation reported restricted human and vehicular movement in local councils including Nnewi South, Orumba North and South, Awka North, Ihiala, and Ogbaru. The commercial hub of Onitsha was notably deserted from 7:00 a.m. until around 4:00 p.m., with no fewer than 169 markets abandoned. In Nkpor, traders and residents only began to emerge from 3:30 p.m. as the perceived threat diminished.
Underlying Fears and Regional Exceptions
Despite the official cancellation of sit-at-home orders by IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu himself, a persistent fear of 'unknown gunmen' continues to influence public behavior in many communities, leading to voluntary compliance.
In parts of Imo State, such as Okigwe, the situation was reportedly tense, with a resident stating that militants actively prevented people from coming out. Conversely, the state capital, Owerri, recorded normal movement and non-compliance with the order.
Ebonyi State completely defied the call for a shutdown. Residents went about their normal daily activities without disruption. Banks, schools, markets, government offices, and motor parks all operated at full capacity. A heavy morning police presence was noted but was quickly scaled back when it became evident that the day would proceed peacefully.
