Transporters Seek Stronger Security Before Resuming Monday South-East Routes

Transport operators have called for stronger security across the South-East before fully resuming Monday interstate services, despite the cancellation of the region’s long-running sit-at-home order.

In separate interviews in Abuja, managers of major transport companies said federal and South-East state governments must take concrete steps to secure highways and motor parks to rebuild public confidence.

The Monday restriction, introduced in August 2021 following the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, had significantly disrupted travel between the South-East and cities such as Lagos and Abuja. Passenger traffic dropped sharply as safety concerns grew, forcing operators to cancel trips and absorb losses. Drivers reported roadblocks and intimidation, while markets and transport hubs were often shut.

Operators say the impact extended beyond transport companies, increasing fares and complicating logistics for traders, students and other regular commuters.

Kanayo Frankly, branch manager of ABC Transport in Utako, Abuja, described the cancellation as positive but said security improvements must follow.

He noted that many travellers deliberately avoid Monday journeys because of past attacks on vehicles. According to him, visible protection along major routes would be required before passengers and drivers feel safe enough to resume regular travel at the start of the week.

Chike Okoro, general manager of Jokinma Motors Ltd in Jabi, Abuja, said his company had not yet received approval to restart Monday departures from the South-East to Abuja. He added that fear built up over several years would not disappear immediately, even with the directive withdrawn.

Okoro also urged authorities to address broader grievances in the region to reduce tension and prevent a recurrence of disruptions.

Ikenna Opode, Utako terminal manager for First Anambra Comfort Line, said improved coordination among security agencies would be critical to restoring economic activity. He explained that while some vehicles depart Abuja for the South-East on Mondays, return trips from the region remain limited due to safety concerns.

He added that, in previous months, operators sometimes timed departures from Abuja to arrive in the South-East after 5 p.m., when enforcement of the sit-at-home order typically eased.

The easing of restrictions gained momentum after the Anambra State Government reopened Monday markets under enhanced security arrangements. Governor Charles Soludo deployed security personnel and engaged traders’ groups to restore commercial activity in major hubs including Onitsha, Nnewi and Awka.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) later announced the full cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home directive across the South-East, with spokesman Emma Powerful stating that the decision followed a directive from its detained leader.

Despite the development, transport operators maintain that only sustained and coordinated security measures will determine whether Monday interstate travel returns to pre-2021 levels.