The concept of “sit-at-home” has emerged as a powerful tool employed by freedom agitators, particularly those of Igbo extraction, to draw attention to their demands for sovereignty and an end to marginalization. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), an organization at the forefront of the movement, has been ‘calling for periodic lockdowns’ in the South-Eastern states of Nigeria since 2021. In this piece, our analyst explores the politics and economics surrounding the sit-at-home orders and their impact on the region.
The Politics of the Order
The sit-at-home orders have been characterized by fluctuations and internal disagreements within IPOB. Initially announced as a weekly Monday lockdown. It was later suspended through a release by the spokesperson of IPOB, stating unauthorized enforcers engaging in criminal activities.
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However, despite the suspension, there have been sporadic calls for sit-at-home actions in the region, indicating internal divisions within the movement. These conflicting messages have raised questions about the organization’s leadership and the overall effectiveness of the strategy.
Economic Consequences
The sit-at-home orders have had significant economic consequences for the South-Eastern region. With businesses, banks, schools, and government offices closed on Mondays, the region experiences a loss of revenue and economic activity. According to estimations, the annual revenue lost due to the 52 Mondays of sit-at-home actions is estimated at N4.618 trillion ($10.495 billion).This staggering amount represents the economic impact and the challenges faced by micro-businesses, which suffer the most from the prolonged closures.
Gainers and Losers
Gainers
Freedom Agitators: The sit-at-home orders serve as a platform for freedom agitators to express their grievances and draw attention to their cause. It allows them to mobilize support, both domestically and internationally, while amplifying their demands for self-determination and an end to marginalization. Sympathizers: Individuals who sympathize with the aspirations of IPOB and the Biafra movement find the sit-at-home orders as a form of solidarity. By participating in the exercise, they demonstrate support for the cause and express their dissatisfaction with the status quo.
Losers
Micro-Businesses: The prolonged closures on Mondays have severely impacted micro-businesses, resulting in significant revenue losses. These businesses, which form the backbone of the local economy, struggle to sustain themselves amidst the loss of customers, contracts, and job opportunities.
Ordinary Citizens: The sit-at-home orders disrupt daily routines and hinder socio-economic activities. Ordinary citizens, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, bear the brunt of the restrictions, facing difficulties accessing essential services, education, and employment opportunities.
While the orders serve as a means for freedom agitators to assert their demands and garner attention, they also have significant economic consequences. The losses incurred by micro-businesses and the disruptions faced by ordinary citizens highlight the challenges and trade-offs associated with such actions. Moving forward, it is crucial for all stakeholders, including IPOB and the Nigerian government, to engage in constructive dialogue and seek peaceful resolutions to address the concerns of the people in the region, ensuring inclusive economic growth and social stability.