The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has rejected reports claiming that markets in Onitsha were open during the recent sit-at-home, describing such narratives as false, contrived and propaganda-driven.
In a press statement signed by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB insisted that the sit-at-home observed in solidarity with Onitsha Main Market traders recorded near-total to total compliance across the South-East.
‘Visible Shutdown Across Biafraland’
IPOB said markets were shut, streets deserted and commercial activities grounded from the early hours of the day, stressing that the situation was evident not only in Onitsha but across Biafraland.
According to the group, even Aguata Local Government Area, the home LGA of Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, experienced lockdown conditions. It added that Government House, Awka, along with schools, banks and government offices, did not operate.
Despite this, IPOB alleged that a manufactured media display was staged to counter the reality on ground.
The group claimed that a few individuals, including security operatives and APGA officials, were assembled to pose under locked shops in a deserted market in an attempt to project normalcy.
‘Narrative Fell Apart’
IPOB stated that once the extent of compliance became obvious, what it described as a coordinated propaganda machine swung into action, with some media platforms allegedly reversing earlier reports showing deserted markets.
The group questioned the consistency of the government’s position, citing Governor Soludo’s alleged threat to demolish 10,000 shops.
“If markets were truly open, there would be no reason for threats. Their own contradictions exposed the lie,” IPOB said.
‘Not About Enforcement, But Resistance’
IPOB emphasized that the issue was not about enforcing sit-at-home orders, recalling that its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, ended compulsory sit-at-home actions years ago.
According to the group, the current resistance is about solidarity, dignity and standing against intimidation, warning that threats against Onitsha traders could encourage further attacks on Igbo businesses nationwide.
‘Unity Silenced Propaganda’
Concluding the statement, IPOB declared that intimidation has failed and that unity among the people defeated what it called state-backed propaganda.
“Truth will always overcome lies, and a united people cannot be silenced,” the group said.
The Anambra State Government has yet to issue an official response to the claims at the time of filing this report.