Tensions Rise in Anambra Amid Soludo and IPOB Clash

Tensions have escalated in Anambra State, Nigeria, as traders find themselves caught in a political conflict between Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The IPOB has called for a sit-at-home protest on February 2, 2026, to express solidarity with their leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently on trial. In response, Governor Soludo ordered the closure of the Onitsha main market for a week, citing economic damage from previous sit-at-home actions.

The governor's decision reflects frustration over ongoing disruptions to the state's economy, which have been exacerbated by IPOB's repeated calls for such actions. Traders, however, view the sit-at-home as a voluntary gesture of support for Kanu and express concerns about the impact of the market closure on their livelihoods.

The IPOB has accused Soludo of collaborating with the federal government to undermine the Biafran self-determination cause, leading to increased tension and uncertainty for local businesses.