Author(s) :

Oluwole Israel Oluwasanmi, PhD, Okoli Basil Chuka, PhD, Oluwafemi Fayomi Oluwafemi.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Abstract This study investigates the impact of the "sit-at-home" directive on economic degradation in Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria. Driven by the agitations of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the weekly Monday sit-at-home order has severely disrupted socio-economic activities in the region. Anchored on the Relative Deprivation Theory, the study utilized a descriptive survey research design. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 400 residents and market traders in Enugu State, yielding 305 valid responses (76.25% return rate). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings reveal a strong consensus that the directive has caused severe economic instability (62.3%), reduced productivity (48.8%), massive revenue loss (91.5%), and discouraged both local and foreign investment (91.5%). Viewed through the lens of Relative Deprivation Theory, the study concludes that while the collective action was born out of perceived political and economic marginalization, it has paradoxically accelerated the absolute economic deprivation of the region. The study recommends inclusive national dialogue, security sector reform, and the establishment of protected economic buffer zones to restore commercial activities. Keywords: Sit-at-Home Order, Economic Degradation, IPOB, Enugu State, Relative Deprivation, Marginalization.

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