Igbo Business Owners to Observe Nationwide Shutdown in Support of IPOB Leader.
In a display of solidarity, Igbo business owners across Nigeria have been instructed to halt all commercial operations on Monday, October 20, 2025. This coordinated effort aims to demonstrate unity in support of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The directive was announced by the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) Worldwide, which has called for a comprehensive lockdown of all Igbo-owned establishments, including shops, markets, companies, and transportation services nationwide.
In a statement released by the OYC National President, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, the shutdown is designed to coincide with a peaceful protest march to the Presidential Villa at Aso Rock, led by human rights advocate Omoyele Sowore. This protest seeks to advocate for the immediate and unconditional release of Kanu.
Igboayaka emphasized that the initiative represents a “moral and patriotic duty” of the Igbo people, framing the planned shutdown as a peaceful affirmation of their commitment to truth, justice, and the rule of law.
“We cannot continue business as usual while a son of Igboland remains unjustly detained, contrary to multiple court rulings that have ordered his release,” stated Igboayaka, underscoring the determination of the Igbo community to stand firm on this critical issue.
The shutdown is anticipated to have a profound impact on economic activities within the region, reflecting the collective sentiment of the Igbo populace regarding Kanu’s continued detention.
