On February 17, 2025, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru urged Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, the new General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army in Enugu, to take decisive action against the ongoing sit-at-home protests that have severely hampered economic activities in the South East.
The sit-at-home order, enforced by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) since 2021, has disrupted business and movement across the five southeastern states, particularly on Mondays. During a courtesy visit to the Governor’s Office in Abakaliki, Nwifuru emphasized the need for the military and other security agencies to establish a reward system to boost the morale of their personnel, acknowledging their commitment to maintaining security in the region.
Major General Olatoye, who assumed his position on January 27, 2025, stated that his visit aimed to understand the operational landscape and enhance collaboration among various security agencies. He expressed a commitment to addressing the challenges faced in the region.
The governor’s appeal highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the sit-at-home order, which has created significant socio-economic challenges for residents and businesses in the South East.
