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Residents of Imo State have complied with the sit-at-home directive, leaving the streets deserted and businesses closed. The order, which came into effect on Monday, was widely observed across the state, with no movement reported and shops shut down.
A pedestrian near the Imo State University (IMSU) junction, who chose to remain anonymous, commented on the situation: “As you can see, everywhere is deserted due to the sit-at-home that began today. For fear of being attacked by gunmen, everyone has decided to stay indoors and wait for events to unfold.”
Despite the show of force conducted by the Imo State Police Command and other security agencies over the weekend to reassure residents of their safety, people remained cautious. The police had issued a statement through their spokesperson, Henry Okoye, detailing increased security measures in response to threats from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), regarding their unlawful sit-at-home directives scheduled for October 21 and 22, 2024.
Okoye’s statement emphasized the efforts of security personnel to maintain peace and order during the tense period. “Our primary objective is to ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens. From today, 19th October, and continuing through to 23rd October, security personnel will intensify visible policing through these patrols,” he said.
The police also assured the public that detectives would carry out reconnaissance operations to gather intelligence and asked residents to remain calm, vigilant, and report any suspicious activity.
Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma thanked Imo citizens for their cooperation and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the state. “Together, we can enhance the peace and security in our dear state,” Danjuma added.
The sit-at-home order, enforced by separatist groups in the region, continues to disrupt daily life, with residents adhering to the directive out of fear of violent reprisals.
