The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has reaffirmed that the May 30 sit-at-home order across the South-East remains mandatory in honor of “Biafra Heroes Day.” IPOB has called on all residents in the region to observe the day by staying at home to commemorate those who fought during the civil war from 1967 to 1970.
In anticipation of the day, IPOB had earlier requested the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, to reschedule their activities planned for May 30. The pro-Biafran group emphasized that the day is dedicated to celebrating its fallen heroes.
Emma Powerful, IPOB’s spokesman, issued a statement on Tuesday, asserting that the remembrance of those who fought for Biafra’s freedom and sovereignty is crucial. He emphasized that no government or security agency has the authority to harass anyone during the commemoration. He further announced a ban on all social activities, stating that markets, schools, banks, government, and private businesses must remain closed from 6 am to 6 pm on May 30.
“The global family IPOB wishes to remind every person resident in Biafra territory that the May 30, 2024, sit-at-home in commemoration of Biafra Heroes Day is sacrosanct. We oblige everyone to abide by this order—it’s only one day, only Thursday, May 30, 2024, no other day,” the statement read.
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Powerful added, “As long as Biafra Land is concerned, IPOB remains a very important state actor on issues concerning Biafra. The remembrance of all those who fought for Biafra’s freedom and sovereignty remains imperative, and no government or security agency has any authority to harass any innocent person during that event.”
He called on state governors in Biafra Land to ensure the safety of people and property on that day. Students taking WAEC exams on May 30 are advised to wear their school uniforms for identification. IPOB clarified that it does not engage in criminal activities and cannot prevent children from taking their exams.
“The Federal Government must understand that they cannot slaughter our heroes and, at the same time, stop us from mourning or remembering them. Those who died in defense of our land during the genocidal war of 1967-1970 are worthy of being remembered and celebrated,” he added.
The statement also paid tribute to all Biafran heroes and heroines, including Bruce Mayrock from the USA, who sacrificed his youth for the Biafran cause.
“We remember and honor General Phillip Efiong, Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Air raid Achuzie, Dr. Frank Opigo, General Umunnakwe, Thomas Aguiyi Ironsi, Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu, and many others who contributed immensely for us to live,” the statement continued.
IPOB also urged Biafrans in the diaspora to obtain permits for rallies in their respective countries, emphasizing the importance of telling the world about the Biafran genocidal war and the resilience of Biafran heroes. “Our people must understand that Biafra is coming. We have crossed the Rubicon, and nothing will make us change our mind or diminish our resolve towards this fight for Biafra liberation,” the statement concluded.
