Parts of Igboland remained largely quiet on Monday as many citizens voluntarily observed the weekly sit-at-home in solidarity with the continued detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

In a press statement, IPOB spokesperson Comrade Emma Powerful clarified that the enforcement of the Monday sit-at-home has officially ended following a directive by Kanu over the weekend. “This Monday observance is therefore a voluntary civic decision by free people. Biafrans are not slaves; they are free citizens who can decide what to do with their Mondays,” the statement read.

Emma Powerful emphasized that IPOB is committed to democratic principles, insisting that no one is being forced to observe the sit-at-home. He added that citizens exercising their right to civil disobedience would not face harassment.

Those who spoke with journalists said the unconditional release of Kanu remains their top demand, stressing that normalcy in commercial and economic activities would only return fully when he is freed.

“Freedom is a choice. The people have spoken,” the IPOB spokesperson concluded, highlighting the voluntary nature of Monday’s observance and reaffirming the organization’s stance on allowing citizens to decide for themselves.