Imo State major roads, street was plunged into a desert, as businesses, markets, schools, banks, filling station, artisans shops and civil service remained closed, on Monday, 16th August, despite IPOB’s suspended the proposed sit-at-home order.

Imo Residents ignored the suspension of the sit-at-home issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB.

Government offices were empty as civil servant were absent at their place of duty.

Despite a statement by the state government through the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Declan Mbadiwe Emelumba, who urged the people to ignore the order and to go about their normal businesses without fear of molestations.

According the Obinwannem correspondent who monitored the situation, said that few vehicles were seen on the Owerri – Aba expressway. Some passengers were stranded at Naze junction, due to commercial bus drivers were not available, only few Okada riders were spotted.

The roads deserted by vehicles included Orlu Road, Onitsha Road, Port Harcourt Road, Okigwe Road, Mbaise and Aba Roads with shops and motor parks also closed.

However, some roadside/street traders, mostly women, operated in some areas amidst tension and anxiety over possible attacks by criminal elements.
Most of the streets in Owerri were empty as boys were seen playing football on them.

Ijeoma Njoku reporting, Obinwannem News / August 17, 2021