In Imo State, residents adhered strictly to the sit-at-home order, leaving the streets eerily deserted.
According to findings by The PUNCH, there was no sign of movement across the state as shops were locked up and no workers were seen commuting.
The sit-at-home order left many businesses and public spaces lifeless.
A lone pedestrian, spotted near the Imo State University junction and choosing to remain anonymous, commented on the situation.
“As you can see, everywhere is deserted due to the sit-at-home that began today,” the individual said. “For fear of being attacked by gunmen, everyone has decided to stay indoors and wait for events to unfold.”
The Imo State Police Command had, in anticipation of the sit-at-home, conducted a visible show of force across the state. On Saturday, they led joint security operations with other agencies to calm tensions and reassure residents of their safety.
In a formal statement, the spokesperson for the State Police Command,Henry Okoye, explained the security measures in place, “The Imo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, is conducting show-of-force operations and confidence-building patrols across the state in response to the alleged threats posed by the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network, concerning their unlawful sit-at-home directives scheduled for 21st and 22nd October 2024. Our primary objective is to ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens.”
Okoye elaborated that from 19th October through to 23rd October, security forces would ramp up patrols and intelligence-gathering activities to boost public confidence.
“Detectives will carry out reconnaissance operations to gather actionable intelligence,” he added, emphasizing the police’s commitment to public safety during this period.
The Imo State Police Command also encouraged residents to go about their daily routines but to remain vigilant.
They were urged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest authorities, ensuring a collaborative effort between law enforcement and citizens.
Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma extended his gratitude to the people of Imo State for their cooperation, reiterating the Command’s dedication to their safety.
“Together, we can enhance the peace and security in our dear state,” the statement concluded, expressing optimism for the continued collaboration between the community and law enforcement in maintaining order amidst the challenges posed by the sit-at-home order.
