The Indigenous People of Biafra(IPOB) has officially announced the permanent cancellation of its Monday sit-at-home order across Nigeria’s South-East region, effective Monday, February 9, 2026.

This ends a nearly five-year protest that disrupted social and economic life in the region.

The decision comes directly from IPOB’s detained leader, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who instructed the leadership to suspend the action in the interest of peace and the full restoration of normal activities.

Kanu stated there is no longer any justification for the sit-at-home, allowing businesses, schools, and daily life to resume without disruption.

IPOB emphasized its commitment to non-violence, urging residents to go about their lawful activities without fear or intimidation.

The Monday sit-at-home began in 2021 following Kanu’s arrest and extradition from Kenya to Nigeria on terrorism-related charges.

Initially limited to court dates, it later became a weekly action, often enforced violently by armed groups.

Despite prior IPOB suspensions, many residents complied due to fear, resulting in economic losses, school closures, and repeated calls from governors to ignore the order.

IPOB warned that anyone attempting to enforce the sit-at-home now would be acting against Kanu’s directive and would be treated as enemies of the people and the Biafran cause.

Markets, schools, offices, transport services, and all economic activities are expected to resume fully from February 9.

The group encouraged residents to seek direct confirmation of Kanu’s position if in doubt.

Regarding state governments, particularly Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soludo, IPOB cautioned against threatening traders.

Market renovations or relocations must have the consent of stakeholders and provide temporary trading sites.

The group also warned of potential “false-flag operations” designed to create fear, urging residents to remain vigilant, calm, and law-abiding.

IPOB concluded by calling on all South-East residents to open their shops, go to work, and send children to school, declaring the Monday sit-at-home era definitively over.