By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy, and Development (FENRAD) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing economic disruption caused by the sit-at-home order in the Southeast zone.

The group said the situation, initiated by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) following the detention of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has spiraled into a severe economic crisis for millions of citizens across the region.

It stated that the Southeast, once a vibrant economic hub known for its entrepreneurial spirit, trade, and commerce, has been severely crippled by the continued enforcement of the sit-at-home orders. The directive, originally intended as a peaceful form of protest, has escalated into a weekly economic shutdown, especially on Mondays, effectively paralyzing business activities.

This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, Executive Director of the foundation and available to News Express.

According to the statement, ?Many residents, particularly in the urban and commercial centres like Onitsha, Aba, Nnewi, and Enugu, have been forced to close their shops, factories, and markets, leading to Massive economic losses.?

The statement reads in part: ?Reports indicate that businesses lose billions of naira every week due to the inability to operate, driving many into bankruptcy and stagnating local economies.

"Job losses and unemployment: With the continuous disruptions, many business owners have had to downsize, laying off workers. This contributes to the rising unemployment rate in a region already battling economic challenges.

"Increased poverty: The sit-at-home order is exacerbating poverty levels as many households, dependent on daily earnings, struggle to meet basic needs. The most vulnerable, including women, children, and low-income earners, are the hardest hit.

"Impact on education: Schools have been forced to close on sit-at-home days, disrupting the education of millions of children. This not only hampers academic progress but also threatens the future potential of the region?s youth.

"Decline in investments: The persistent unrest has deterred local and foreign investors, who view the region as unstable. Many are pulling out investments, worsening the economic prospects of the Southeast.

"Call for Immediate Release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu: FENRAD firmly believes that the continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by the Nigerian government is fueling the unrest and deepening the crisis.

"His release, which has been ordered by both Nigerian courts and international human rights organizations, remains pivotal to restoring peace and normalcy in the Southeast.

"We urge the Federal Government to: Respect court orders and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally. His release would not only address the immediate concerns of IPOB but would also open the door for meaningful dialogue and negotiation, crucial steps toward resolving the conflict.

"Engage in constructive dialogue: The government must engage all relevant stakeholders, including IPOB, traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society organizations, to address the underlying grievances that have led to the unrest.

"A peaceful resolution is vital for long-term stability in the Southeast. Provide economic relief: FENRAD calls on the Federal and State Governments to introduce immediate economic relief measures to cushion the devastating impact of the sit-at-home orders.

"This includes support for small and medium-sized businesses, traders, and vulnerable populations that have borne the brunt of the economic shutdown.

"The Southeast region cannot continue to suffer from economic paralysis while the issues that have led to the crisis remain unresolved. It is time for peace, progress, and prosperity to return to the region, and this can only be achieved through justice, dialogue, and reconciliation.

"FENRAD appeals to the Nigerian government, IPOB, and all stakeholders to work together in the interest of the Southeast and the nation as a whole. The economic future of the region is at stake, and urgent steps must be taken to end the suffering of millions.

"The immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains a critical step toward achieving lasting peace and economic recovery in the Southeast.?

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