IPOB Restricts Movement Into Onitsha And Nnewi Over Nnamdi Kanu Trial

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has reportedly blocked entrance into the commercial city of Onitsha and the industrial town of Nnewi. According to our reliable source, it was gathered that they want residents and visitors to stay at home in honour of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu who is being arraigned in a Federal High Court in Abuja today being 26th July 2021.

Sources in Onitsha said youths suspected to be members of IPOB made bonfire in most streets in Onitsha, while also forcing vehicles entering the city to return back. Nnamdi Kanu is expected to be in court today being Monday, the 26th day of July 2021 for commencement of trial on his case, after he left the country in 2017.

Nnamdi Kanu had been arrested in Kenya in June this year through the aid of Interpol and extradited to Nigeria to face trial. Videos circulating on social media showed that shops, markets and offices were locked up in Onitsha, while streets are deserted.

In Nnewi, it was reported that youths suspected to be IPOB members were smashing cars belonging motorists who attempted to enter into the city. A source who trades in Onitsha Main Market, Mr Livinus Eze said; “We heard it yesterday as a rumour that there will not be market today, but this morning we found out that people were making bonfire everywhere in the city.

“Nobody has spoken to us about what is happening, but we learnt that it is IPOB that is trying for force people to stay at home in solidarity with Nnamdi Kanu who is appearing in court today.”

In Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, it was reported by our credible source who moved round the city found out that commercial activities were going on without hitches. Police Public Relations Officer for Anambra State Police Command, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga was not available for reaction as at the time of filing this report.