Business and social activities were largely grounded in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, on Monday as residents observed a protest demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Major commercial hubs, including banks, markets, and motor parks, were shut as traders and business owners stayed away from work. Although the Centenary City State Secretariat was open, most government workers failed to report for duty, citing fear of possible unrest.
Similarly, the Abakaliki International Market, Mechanics Village, and Spare Parts Market were opened but largely deserted. Only a few commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles were seen operating, forcing many residents to trek to their destinations.
Despite the partial shutdown, police authorities said the situation in the city and other parts of Ebonyi State remained calm. The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, told reporters that security personnel had been deployed across major routes to prevent any breach of peace.
He said: “Abakaliki and other parts of the state are calm. Our men are on the ground to ensure that no one is harassed or attacked. So far, there has been no report of disturbance.”