The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) had declared sit-at-home every Monday across the South East region which started on August 9 to demand the release of its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Despite that the group suspended the exercise, the commercial banks have continued to observe the IPOB directive notwithstanding its grave economic and social implications on businesses and the economy of the country.
Checks by ArmadaNews online revealed that the governors have had series of discussions with Chief Executives of the banks in the region on the need to commence full operations given the adverse effects of the Monday closures on the economies of the affected states and the country as a whole, yet the banks remained shut on Mondays.
In a letter to Regional, Zonal and Branch managers of all the commercial banks operating in Anambra State, dated September 10, 2021, obtained by ArmadaNews online, Governor Willie Obiano directed that all branches of commercial banks operating within the state be opened for business on Monday, September 13 and remain open on all subsequent Mondays.
The letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu warned that any bank in the state, which flouts the directive ones, would be sealed and stopped from further operations in the state for the rest of the week.
The Anambra State Government also vowed that a second default by the banks will attract a permanent closure.
The letter read: “Following the continuous closure of bank premises across the state on Mondays for the past few weeks and the grave economic and social implications of such on businesses and persons residents in the State, I am directed by His Excellency the Executive Governor of Anambra State to convey the Government’s firm resolve not to tolerate such henceforth.
“Accordingly, the Government of Anambra State hereby directs that all branches of Commercial Banks operating within the state be opened for business on Monday, 13th September 2021 and remain open on all subsequent Mondays.
“You are to note that any bank branch which does not open as directed will be sealed by government and stopped from further operations in the state for the rest of the week. A second default will however attract a permanent closure of the branch by government.
“Banks with branches in major markets across the state are to particularly ensure those branches open accordingly for the use of traders and customers in the markets.
“The State Government assures all Banks of the provision of reinforced Security by the Police and other Security Agencies for all Banks to enhance their operations. Please be guided accordingly.”
