ABUJA, NIGERIA — Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, announced on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, that the sit-at-home order, which has nearly paralyzed social and economic activities in the South-East Region, has ended.
This announcement came during the COAS combined second and third quarter-conference held in the capital city of Abuja.
According to Lagbaja, the disbandment was possible due to the collaborative efforts between military troops and various stakeholders.
“Through Operation Udoka, our troops have, in collaboration with other relevant stakeholders, put an end to the infamous sit-at-home order that has almost crippled socio-economic activities in the Region,” Lagbaja said.
Initially implemented as a peaceful protest to demand the release of pro-Biafra leader Nnamdi Kanu, the sit-at-home order escalated over time into a more disruptive and even deadly movement.
The economic fallout, coupled with loss of lives and property, exacerbated existing tensions in the area.
Beyond the South-East, the Army Chief also stated that strides have been made in containing insurgent activities.
“The activities of Boko Haram and other terrorists have been curtailed, and residents of the troubled states have resumed commercial activities,” he added.
To further strengthen security across the country, the Nigerian Army has established Special Forces units.
Lagbaja also took the opportunity to talk about the welfare of troops and their families.
“To this end, troops’ welfare and that of their families will remain predominant in all our efforts. I intend to consolidate all existing welfare arrangements to enhance the well-being of our troops and their families,” he said.
One significant initiative that Lagbaja highlighted is the ‘Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers Scheme.’ This scheme aims to provide high-quality, post-service homes to soldiers, a move seen as a motivational factor for the military personnel.
While the annulment of the sit-at-home order is a relief for many law-abiding citizens, it remains to be seen how it will affect the ongoing political and social dynamics in the South-East region, particularly the push for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
But for now, people in the South-East can breathe a sigh of relief. “Law-abiding citizens of the region now go about their businesses and everyday life,” Lagbaja assured.
The joint military and civilian efforts to end the sit-at-home order, along with other security initiatives, marks a noteworthy shift in the Nigerian government’s approach to resolving regional crises and instabilities, and could serve as a model for handling similar challenges in the future.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these measures will have a lasting positive impact on security and public order in the South-East and other troubled regions in Nigeria.
