Kaduna residents ignore calls to shut down businesses for free Nnamdi Kanu protests

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Residents of Kaduna State, particularly Igbo traders, have dismissed calls to shut down their businesses in support of the #FreeNnamdiKanu protests.
Despite plans for demonstrations, markets and business centers in the state capital remained open, with traders continuing their daily activities as usual.
A visit to Sheikh Abubakar Gumi Central Market , Sabo Tasha Market, and other business centers along Ahmadu Bello Way revealed a sense of normalcy, with no visible disruptions.
Security personnel, including police, civil defense, and the Department of State Services, were deployed to strategic locations across the state, such as Narayi High Cost, Barnawa Complex, and Stadium Roundabout, as a precautionary measure.
Traders at Abubakar Gumi Central Market distanced themselves from the protests, asserting that their union did not issue any order to close down businesses.
This response suggests that the call to protest may not have gained significant support from the local business community.
The #FreeNnamdiKanu protests aim to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Despite a court ruling permitting the protests, security agencies have been deployed to maintain order and prevent potential disruptions.
The protests have elicited mixed reactions, with some groups supporting Kanu’s release while others have condemned the demonstrations.