Sit-at-Home Orders led to three soldiers’ deaths, empty streets, and closed businesses across Southeast Nigeria. Abia’s government condemns the violence, offering a bounty for the attackers and support for victims’ families.
The recent sit-at-home directive by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Movement for the Actualization of Biafra (MASSOB) to honor Biafra heroes and heroines who died during the Nigeria-Biafra civil war took a deadly turn, resulting in the tragic killing of three soldiers. The directive saw total compliance across many parts of the Southeast, leading to deserted streets, closed businesses, and heightened tension.
A Region in Mourning and Fear
In states like Anambra, Ebonyi, Abia, Enugu, and Imo, the normally bustling streets were eerily quiet. Schools, banks, markets, and commercial activities were at a standstill. The Abia State capital, Umuahia, witnessed a violent episode as gunmen attacked a military unit at Obikabia junction, killing three soldiers and burning the unit along with a patrol van. The attack left the city in a state of fear, with residents staying indoors as a military helicopter patrolled the skies.
Efforts to get a comment from Lt. Innocent Omale, Public Relations Officer of the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, were unsuccessful. A young man hit by a stray bullet was seen struggling for his life, as sympathizers tried to rush him to the hospital.
Unyielding Compliance Despite Government Pleas
In Anambra, particularly in Onitsha and Nnewi, all markets, schools, banks, and government offices were shut down in observance of the day. Residents expressed disappointment over the absence of police and security agents who had previously assured them of safety if they went about their lawful businesses.
Enugu also saw major streets like Zik Avenue and Agbani Road deserted. Despite the state government’s plea for residents to ignore the sit-at-home order, many chose to comply, fearing potential violence.
Ebonyi State, particularly its capital Abakaliki, showed full compliance. Businesses, schools, and social activities were entirely halted, with roads deserted except for essential service vehicles. Armed security personnel were stationed at strategic locations to prevent any attacks.
In Imo State, Owerri’s major streets and roads were deserted, with economic activities coming to a grinding halt. Shops and markets were closed, and residents stayed indoors.
A Call for Justice and Security
The Abia State government condemned the attack on soldiers, calling it a serious affront to its efforts in restoring security and public infrastructure. In response, the government placed a ₦25 million bounty on the killers, urging citizens to provide any useful information that could lead to their arrest. Additionally, the government promised to support the families of the slain soldiers, including paying regular stipends to their spouses and funding their children’s education up to university level.
Commissioner for Information in Abia, Okey Kanu, emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining security and order, stating: “The Abia state government considers the event of Thursday, May 30, 2024, a serious affront to its resolve by criminal elements who are hell-bent on returning Abia to the dark days of insecurity and fear amongst citizens, especially in Aba, the economic heartbeat of the state.”
A Region at a Crossroads
This tragic incident highlights the volatile nature of the sit-at-home orders and the resulting impact on the region’s socio-economic life. It underscores the need for a peaceful resolution to the underlying issues driving the Biafran agitation. As we reflect on the events, the call for justice, security, and a sustainable peace in the Southeast becomes ever more urgent.
BlaccTheddi Post continues to stand by its mission of authenticity, progress, and the pursuit of change, advocating for a future where the sacrifices of the past pave the way for a secure and prosperous tomorrow.
Sources:
- – Vanguard News
- – Statements from the Abia State Government
