Over 700 Lives Lost to Southeast Sit-at-Home Protests in Nigeria

A new report has revealed that over 700 people have lost their lives in Nigeria’s Southeast region due to violent enforcement of “sit-at-home” orders by separatist groups, particularly the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). These orders, often enforced on Mondays or key dates, have paralyzed economic activity and led to a devastating toll on human life.

The data, compiled by a coalition of civil society organizations, paints a grim picture of a region caught between calls for secession and a federal government struggling to maintain control. Most of the deaths are attributed to clashes between security forces and armed enforcers, as well as targeted attacks on civilians who defy the orders.

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“This is no longer a protest it’s turned into a campaign of fear,” said Ngozi Akachukwu, a human rights lawyer based in Enugu. “Shops are burnt, vehicles torched, and entire towns shut down under threat of violence.”

The IPOB, a separatist group seeking an independent Biafra nation, has denied direct responsibility for the killings, claiming its activities are peaceful. However, splinter factions like the Eastern Security Network (ESN) have been accused of unleashing terror in communities and markets.

The federal government has condemned the violence and pledged increased military presence in the region. But critics argue that the militarized response may be aggravating tensions. “The military raids are creating more resentment,” said political analyst Uche Ihediwa. “There needs to be a political dialogue.”

Local residents say they live in constant fear. “We can’t plan weddings or burials. We can’t even go to church on some days,” said a teacher in Imo State who requested anonymity. “This is not freedom. It’s torment.”

As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, observers warn that unless the situation is defused through dialogue and meaningful political reform, the death toll could rise further and deepen national division.

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