Sit-at-home: Partial compliance recorded in Umuahia, Aba
On Monday, banking and commercial activities in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, resumed, but overall participation was notably low. Government offices at the State Secretariat also opened, yet many employees opted not to attend work. Observers noted that markets, particularly at Isi Gate and Orie Ugba, remained operational but attracted very few traders and customers.
In contrast, Ohafia, one of Abia State’s largest towns, was entirely locked down, with residents adhering strictly to a sit-at-home order. As a result, all banks, shops, and motor parks in Ohafia were closed for the day. In Aba, another significant city in the state, major markets such as Ariaria, Ahia Ohuru, and the Shopping Centre did not open in the morning, and banks followed suit, remaining closed at that time.
Throughout this period, there were no reports of violence, although security personnel were observed patrolling key areas in various cities and towns within Abia State, likely to maintain order and ensure compliance with the sit-at-home directive. The mixed responses across different regions underline the varying levels of compliance among the populace, with some areas demonstrating a strong commitment to the order while others were less affected.
