[BREAKING]: IPOB Raises Alarm Over Alleged Sealing Of Onitsha Main Market Shops, Urges Soludo To Reopen Businesses (Full Details)

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has reacted to reports that authorities in Anambra State sealed several shops at the Onitsha Main Market over traders’ alleged failure to open their businesses on Mondays.

In a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the group described the reported enforcement as punitive and warned that harsh measures against traders could worsen economic hardship and heighten tension within the commercial hub.

IPOB reiterated that its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has publicly called for an end to the sit-at-home and any violent enforcement associated with it. However, the organisation maintained that individuals who still observe the exercise do so voluntarily and should not be punished through economic sanctions.

The group argued that sealing shops without proper engagement risks damaging trust between the government and citizens. It therefore urged Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to reconsider the alleged action and unseal all affected businesses to promote peace and normal economic activities.

IPOB further emphasised its commitment to peaceful and lawful conduct while calling on authorities to prioritise dialogue, patience, and respect for the rights of traders.

As of press time, the Anambra State Government had not released an official statement responding to the claims made in the IPOB press release regarding the reported closure of shops at the Onitsha Main Market.