The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has summoned an emergency closed-door meeting with area commanders and tactical unit heads following concerns over a sit-at-home directive reportedly issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for Monday.
The security meeting, which took place on Sunday at the State Police Headquarters in Awka, focused on strategies to safeguard lives and property across the state. The CP directed an immediate ramp-up of intelligence-based patrols, surveillance activities, and proactive policing to prevent any possible breakdown of law and order.
IPOB had earlier announced a total shutdown of business and social activities across the South-East and other areas it describes as Biafran territories. The planned action, scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, was said to be in solidarity with traders at the Onitsha Main Market.
In a statement released Friday by the group’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, residents including traders, transport operators, banks, schools, civil servants, and other institutions were urged to observe the protest peacefully.
However, the directive has sparked internal disagreement. On Saturday, IPOB’s legal counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, distanced the group from the order, claiming the message did not originate from its leadership. He alleged that the individual issuing the statement under the name “Emma Powerful” had been compromised and was acting contrary to the interests of the Igbo people.
Ejiofor described the lockdown notice as false and misleading, stressing that IPOB had previously disassociated itself from enforcing sit-at-home actions. He advised residents to ignore the instruction.
Despite the conflicting claims, Orutugu urged citizens to remain calm and not fall for what he described as attempts to create panic and division.
According to the police chief, security assessments revealed a pattern of coordinated online messages by certain non-state actors aimed at spreading fear, misinformation, and ethnic tension. He said such content is designed to weaken public confidence and destabilise the peace currently enjoyed in the state.
He commended residents for their alertness and cooperation with security agencies, noting that timely sharing of credible information has helped maintain order.
“The Command has intensified intelligence-driven patrols and surveillance operations to forestall any threats,” he said, assuring the public that adequate security measures are already in place.
Residents were also cautioned against relying on unverified information circulating on social media and encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or emergency channels.
The meeting was attended by heads of joint security outfits and representatives of the state government.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Police Command pledged to continue working to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Government had earlier confirmed that the Onitsha Main Market would reopen on Monday, assuring traders of sufficient security to enable normal economic activities.
