Sit-at- Home Enforcement: Why Owerri residents obeyed despite Police Order

DDM NEWS

Biafra Day celebration

Residents of Owerri, Imo State’s capital, observed a sit-at-home order on May 30, despite the police’s assurance of adequate security.

The order was issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to commemorate Biafra Day, honoring those who lost their lives during the Biafra civil war.

Residents fear that defying the sit-at-home order would put them at risk of attacks or harassment by unknown gunmen who often use such occasions to strike.

These gunmen sometimes hide under the guise of enforcing the sit-at-home order to rob people of their belongings or inflict harm.

Some residents have had negative experiences with security agencies, who may accuse them of supporting IPOB or attempting to breach public peace.

For instance, a barbing saloon owner, Ferdinand Nzukoka, shared an incident where he was accosted by security officers, tagged a member of IPOB, and was released after pleading.

Many residents prioritize their safety above economic or social activities. Olukoma Njoku, an eatery joint owner, emphasized that life is paramount and must be protected at any cost, even if it means sacrificing a day’s earnings.

The sit-at-home order significantly affects the local economy, with shops, markets, and public offices shutting down.

This results in lost of productivity and revenue.

Residents are forced to stay indoors, disrupting their daily routines and activities.

The Imo State Police Command assured residents of their safety and urged them to disregard the sit-at-home order.

The command deployed joint security operatives across the state to ensure safety and prevent breaches of security.

The police and other security agencies conducted confidence-building patrols and operations to deter criminal elements and reassure the public.

Some residents suggest that the Federal Government take over the commemoration of Biafra Day by declaring it a public holiday.

This could help reduce tensions and prevent IPOB from enforcing the sit-at-home order.

A housewife, Mrs. Njoku, proposed this solution, emphasizing that it would allow for a more controlled and peaceful celebration.

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