Enugu State Threatens Sanctions on Defiant Schools, Businesses Amidst Sit-at-Home Order by IPOB Faction

By CHUKWUMA OFILI

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has announced that schools, businesses, and institutions that adhered to the two-day sit-at-home order declared by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) will face sanctions. This declaration follows a tour of Enugu by the Secretary to the State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, and security officials who assessed the level of compliance with the illegal order on Monday.

Enugu Government to Enforce Strict Penalties

During a joint press conference alongside top security chiefs, including Brigadier-General Steven Dogo of the 82 Division Nigerian Army, DSS Director Theresa Egbunu, and Police Commissioner Anayo Uzuegbu, Onyia emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance stance. “For those teachers and schools, whether private or public, that refused to show up, the government will ensure adequate sanctions are enforced. The same applies to businesses, markets, and financial institutions,” Onyia stated.

Sit-at-Home Causes Economic Strain in the South-East

The sit-at-home order, declared by IPOB’s factional leader Simeon Ekpa, disrupted economic activities across parts of the South-East region. Although there was partial compliance, the economic fallout was felt, with some businesses and institutions shutting down.

Youth Leaders Call for End to Sit-at-Home Crisis

The Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) expressed deep concern over the continued sit-at-home directives, which are causing significant harm to the region’s economy. In a statement by President-General Goodluck Ibem, COSEYL criticized the chaos created by the orders, often communicated through anonymous voice notes and videos.

“We cannot continue like this. This madness must stop,” Ibem said, highlighting the need for a solution to the disruptions caused by the IPOB faction. COSEYL also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to release IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu as a potential step toward ending the region’s ongoing economic challenges.

The group believes that Kanu’s release could ease the tension and stop the “economic sabotage” that continues to plague the South-East, stressing the importance of resolving the issue for the benefit of national development.