The sit-at-home directive by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) turned bloody on Monday as two persons were killed in Nnewi, Anambra state.

 

This is even as the directive has crippled commercial activities in the states across the South-East, with major roads deserted and public places, including schools under lock.

 

Owing to the fear of possible attacks, globalvoice gathered that most residents remained indoors after stocking up their homes ahead of the plans to close businesses in the states.

 

IPOB had on July 30 ordered a sit-at-home in the South-East every Monday, until Nnamdi Kanu, its leader, is released from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

 

The aggrieved group said the lockdown tagged ‘Ghost Monday’ will also affect schools and marketplaces.

 

It threatened to shut down economic activities in the region, adding that violators will receive their reward for disobedience.

 

Residents said gunshots were heard at Izuchukwu Junction in Nnewi as early as 6:00 am, only for them to later see the lifeless bodies of two young men. 

 

Also three buses were set ablaze in the industrial city of the state by unknown gunmen presumed to be the Nigerian Army.

 

A source told globalvoice that  the victims were shot dead by army operatives while enforcing the sit-at-home order.

 

However,  pictures sent to IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful who claimed they were not members of the group.

 

Emma Powerful told globalvoice that, “This is not IPOB or ESN security outfit, it's those who want to try the resolve of IPOB. We are not enforcing sit-at-home order, people complied by themselves".