As the Indigenous People of Biafra marked Biafra Day on Friday, major cities in Abia State, including Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia, experienced a near-complete lockdown.
According to PUNCH, residents across these cities stayed indoors, adhering closely to the sit-at-home directive issued by IPOB, despite heightened security measures implemented by the state government under Governor Alex Otti.
The usual hustle and bustle of daily life was largely absent. Economic activities came to a standstill for most of the day, with markets, shops, banks, and motor parks remaining closed.
Schools and government offices offered only minimal services as many workers stayed away. The normally busy streets were quiet, with only a few tricycle operators seen moving, mostly without passengers.
Those drivers who spoke with news reporters expressed concern over the financial losses caused by the shutdown and urged the federal government to address issues of marginalization that fuel such actions.
In Umuahia, the popular Isigate market, known for its vibrant trade, was unusually deserted. Traders stayed away, leaving empty stalls and tables. A handful of shop owners were observed standing idly within the market area.
Ikechi Emelike, a resident of Umuahia, shared his thoughts: “I am happy that people observed the order. We are not observing a sit-at-home order, but remembering our heroes past who lost their lives in the struggle for Biafra. There is no family in the South East that did not lose someone.”
Ahead of the day’s events, the Abia State Police Command issued instructions to maintain law and order. The State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, held a security briefing with officers, stressing the need to protect police bases and government facilities.
According to DSP Maureen Chinaka, the police public relations officer, the CP directed strict supervision of officers and ordered continuous security patrols under Operation Show of Force to prevent disturbances.
CP Isa advised all units to stay alert, especially those stationed at critical locations, with rapid response teams ready to act swiftly if necessary. He assured residents that the police were committed to maintaining peace during the month-end period and urged the public to report any suspicious activities promptly.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abia also reinforced its readiness. Commandant Akinsola Aderemi instructed officers to follow operational orders closely and to protect their bases.
The Rapid Response Squad, Tactical Team, and Counter-Terrorism Unit were deployed to patrol sensitive areas, ensuring no criminal activity could disrupt the calm.
The NSCDC appealed to residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear, emphasizing collaboration with other security agencies to keep the state safe.
