Despite improved security in the South-East, many residents and businesses still avoid opening on Mondays due to fear, past attacks, and ongoing protests over Nnamdi Kanu’s continued detention.
Even with better security across the South-East, major commercial cities like Aba, Onitsha, Nnewi, Okigwe, and parts of Imo still remain largely shut on Mondays as residents cite fear, past violence, and lingering psychological trauma.
Many banks and even the Court of Appeal in Owerri stay closed, with officials recalling that a court driver kidnapped four years ago has “yet to regain his freedom.” Some residents say communities are simply being “precautionary,” while others like Mr. Chidiebere Ike Nwokike insist the caution is necessary because “we have had more than our fair share of bloodshed.” Many locals also link the continued Monday shutdowns to a silent protest over Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention.