IPOB: Umahi makes U-turn, says traders have the right to remain at home

David Umahi, governor of Ebonyi, has reversed his order that residents of the state should ignore the sit-at-home order of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

The governor had warned that traders who comply with IPOB’s directive on Monday should be ready to forfeit their shops.

The pro-Biafra agitators had declared a sit-at-home order across south-east states from May 29 to 31.

In a statement released by Francis Nwaze, his special assistant on media and publicity, Umahi said he had received several requests from some citizens who wished to remain at home on that day to honour their relatives killed during the civil war.

“The prayer requests are to honour their loved ones killed during the Nigeria – Biafra civil war and most of those who made these requests are traders,” he said.

“The state government remains resolute to protect its citizens but also realises that people have the right to remain at home or engage in various engagements.”

Umahi, therefore, said those who wished to remain at home on Monday will no longer be penalised.

“It is their constitutional right while the rights of those who wish to open for business should also not be infringed upon,” he said.

“Security agencies are directed to do everything possible to maintain law and order in the entire state.

“The ban on processions or gatherings of any kind throughout the state is still in force.”