Simon Ekpa's Biafra Government In-Exile Announces Planned Lockdown in South-East Over Security Concerns

 

Simon Ekpa, leader of the Biafra Republic Government In-Exile (BRGIE), has declared a planned month-long lockdown of Nigerian government offices in the South-East region, starting August 28, 2024, in response to ongoing insecurity and the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a statement released through his official X account on Friday, Ekpa detailed that the decision was made during a virtual meeting with the BRGIE cabinet. The lockdown will affect government offices across Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Anambra states.

Ekpa reiterated the demand for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu and other Biafrans currently detained by the Nigerian government, as well as the demilitarization of the South-East region.

“The Biafra government has resolved to impose a lockdown on Nigerian institutions in select areas of Biafraland due to the persistent violence against Christians and Biafrans, the invasion of churches, and the abduction of worshippers,” Ekpa said. “This lockdown will be in effect from August 28 to September 26, 2024.”

He further called for the complete withdrawal of Nigerian security forces from Biafran territory and emphasized the need for the release of all detained Biafrans, including those held in various locations across Nigeria.

Ekpa’s statement comes despite the IPOB's recent decision to end its Monday sit-at-home order. The BRGIE, under Ekpa's leadership, has continued to enforce this measure in the South-East region.