Umahi warns traders: Observe IPOB sit-at-home order and lose your shops

David Umahi, governor of Ebonyi, has warned of the implications of obeying the sit-at-home order by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Uche Mefor, deputy leader of IPOB, had asked the Igbo to stay indoors on Wednesday in commemoration of ‘Biafra Day’.

But speaking on Tuesday in Abakiliki, the state capital, Umahi said even though the south-east governors are not happy with the “marginalisation” of the Igbo, they do not agree with the ideology of IPOB — which is seeking an independent state of Biafra.

The governors had proscribed the group in 2017.

“And so, any trader that closes shop will forfeit the shop forever. Anybody that flouts this order will be decidedly dealt with,” he said.

“I ask Ebonyians to go about their businesses freely and peacefully.

“Let me say that when we the south-east governors say that we don’t want the activities of IPOB, it does not mean that we are very happy with the marginalisation of the south-east in the affairs of our nation.

“But we are saying that the way IPOB is going to address the matter is not the right way. The right way is what Ohanaeze Ndigbo did; which they did in the committee of Igbo people and that is what we believe.”

He called on the federal government to “look into” the plights of the Igbo and address the issue of marginalisation.

“We believe in one Nigeria that is founded on equity and fairness and fair play,” he said.