RismadarVoice Reporters
October 12, 2026
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has denied reports suggesting that it plans to resume the enforcement of Monday sit-at-home orders across the South-East, maintaining that its leadership has issued no such directive.
The group clarified reports of an alleged police intelligence document dated October 9, 2026, which reportedly warned of possible renewed enforcement of movement restrictions beginning Monday, October 12.
In a statement attributed to its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, IPOB dismissed the allegations and insisted that neither its leadership nor the Eastern Security Network (ESN) had authorised any operation to compel residents to remain indoors.
The group specifically denied issuing any voice message, instruction or operational directive ordering the enforcement of sit-at-home restrictions in Imo State or other parts of the South-East.
IPOB also challenged the Nigeria Police Force to provide credible evidence linking the alleged directive to its leadership or the ESN.
It questioned the authenticity of the information reportedly contained in the intelligence document, maintaining that the allegations did not represent its official position.
The organisation reiterated its demand for Biafran self-determination, stating that its objectives should be pursued through peaceful means.
On political participation, IPOB restated its position on boycotting forthcoming elections, while calling on the Federal Government to address the economic challenges confronting Nigerians.
The group identified unemployment, hunger and the rising cost of living as major concerns requiring urgent government intervention.
It urged the authorities to prioritise policies that would improve economic opportunities, reduce hardship and address the difficulties facing households across the country.
The reported police intelligence document had raised concerns about the possibility of renewed restrictions on commercial activities, transportation and movement in parts of the South-East.
However, IPOB maintained that no instruction had been issued by its leadership authorising the resumption of compulsory Monday sit-at-home enforcement.
The sit-at-home controversy has remained a significant security and economic concern in the South-East, where disruptions to commercial activities and movement have affected residents and businesses over the years.
Although IPOB has previously announced the suspension of compulsory Monday sit-at-home observance, concerns about enforcement by armed individuals have persisted in parts of the region.
The latest allegations have renewed questions about public safety and the possibility of further disruptions to normal activities.
As of the time of this report, the police had not issued a response to IPOB’s denial in the information available.
The claims surrounding the alleged intelligence document remain unverified, and no independently authenticated directive ordering the resumption of Monday sit-at-home enforcement has been established.
