Commercial activities went on without hitches in Owerri, the Imo State capital, following the relaxation of the one-week sit-at-home order by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra.

The popular Eke Onunwa, Relief and Egbeada markets were open with buying and selling in full swing as vehicular and pedestrian movements remained normal.

Also, motor parks, banks and ATM points bubbled with activities, although most schools were closed.

Speaking, Mr Chima Osuko, a secondary school teacher, said the fear of the unknown resulting from the order must have been a reason why students stayed away from schools.

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He said, “If the news of cancellation of the order had been disseminated before Thursday, children would have been in school today.”

Also, Mrs Josephine Ajoku, an All Progressives Congress woman leader in the state, hailed the decision to relax the order, adding that it would contribute to a free and fair election in Anambra.