Umuahia Shuts Down Amidst Unclaimed Sit-at-Home Protest

A spontaneous sit-at-home leaves Umuahia in total lockdown, sparking concerns about Nnamdi Kanu’s detention

The capital of Abia State, Umuahia, experienced a total lockdown as residents adhered to a spontaneous sit-at-home protest. Although no group officially claimed responsibility, the shutdown is widely believed to be linked to growing concerns over the continued detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu. The protest reflects the frustration and unrest felt in the region, with the people calling for Kanu’s release.
The protest, which saw total compliance, left the streets of Umuahia empty, with both human and vehicular movement largely absent. Banks, schools, and most businesses remained closed, while only a handful of street vendors dared to open. Residents are deeply concerned over Kanu’s whereabouts, especially since his legal team and family have been denied access to him since his last court appearance on September 24.

A source close to the situation revealed that the mass action appears to be driven by the lack of information about Kanu’s condition, leading to widespread fear and a willingness to follow any directive that could lead to his release. “The people are anxious and willing to act on any order if it means securing Kanu’s freedom,” the source explained.

While the protest remained largely peaceful, with security patrols visible in parts of the city, there is an underlying tension. The Department of State Services (DSS) has been accused of isolating Kanu, prompting further legal challenges from his lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, who has condemned the denial of access to his client. This latest action has only intensified the calls for Kanu’s immediate release.