The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has bowed to the Nigerian government, cancelling its sit-at-home order in the South-East.
The group has come under condemnation for subverting democracy, free movement and unleashing terror in the region.
Spokesman for the group, Emma Powerful, on Thursday, said the sit-at-home order has been cancelled to allow people in Anambra to participate in the governorship election on Saturday.
“The people of Anambra State should go out en masse and peacefully exercise their franchise come 6th November, 20121, and accordingly, choose a leader of their choice and should not be intimidated by anybody, group of persons or security agents,” he said.
In what appears a subtle warning to IPOB insurgents, the US Embassy in Nigeria said it would sanction those who instigate violence during the Anambra polls.
“We will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections. We will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process,” the embassy said in a statement on Thursday.