UMUAHIA: Economic, commercial and official activities in major cities across Abia and Imo States are gradually rebounding following the cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home order.
The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) introduced the directive across the South-East in August 2021 to protest the arrest and detention of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The enforcement of the order over the years was marked by sporadic violence and widespread economic disruption.
Relief came on Sunday, February 8, when IPOB spokesman, Emma Powerful, announced the “total cancellation” of the directive, quoting the group’s leader.
A survey across markets, motor parks, schools, banks and government offices in Owerri, Umuahia and Aba showed a cautious but steady return to normalcy.
In Owerri, banks reopened and customers were seen using ATMs, although some institutions still operate delayed resumption hours as a precaution. Transport operators reported improved passenger turnout on Monday compared to previous weeks, with interstate travel gradually picking up.
Drivers and transport managers, who lamented heavy losses during the years of compliance, expressed hope that business would steadily improve. However, traders at Relief and Eke Onunwa markets in Owerri said patronage remained low, attributing it partly to lingering fear and altered shopping habits.
In Umuahia, activity was observed at Ohiya Mechanic Village and parts of Ubani Modern Market, though many shops remained shut. Traders described the cancellation as encouraging but noted that customers from neighbouring communities were yet to fully regain confidence.
In Aba, the commercial hub of Abia, the situation was mixed. While smaller neighbourhood markets opened and recorded brisk activity, major markets such as Ariaria International Market witnessed only skeletal operations. Most banks, schools and some local government offices remained closed as of Monday morning, reflecting persistent apprehension.
Stakeholders, including business leaders and civil servants, welcomed the cancellation, describing it as a positive step towards restoring investor confidence and reversing years of economic losses.
They, however, called for improved security, sustained public sensitization and coordinated efforts by South-East governors to guarantee safety and rebuild trust, stressing that lasting normalcy would depend on consistent peace and credible communication.
