 has declared May 30, 2025, a public holiday and a day of sit-at-home across the South-East region to honor Biafran heroes and heroines who lost their lives during the 1967-1970 Civil War.){kind=link}
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared May 30, 2025, a public holiday and a day of sit-at-home across the South-East region to honor Biafran heroes and heroines who lost their lives during the 1967-1970 Civil War.
MCC reports that the pro-Biafran group had announced that all forms of movement—by road, air, or sea—will be prohibited from 6am to 6pm on that day, stressing that no activities will be allowed in what it refers to as “Biafran territory.”
They also urged people to stay indoors to observe the day of remembrance.
However, in a prompt response, the Anambra State Police Command, through its spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, assured residents of the state that they would be provided with adequate security to go about their usual activities without fear of harassment.
“We are unaware of the proposed lockdown, but we assure the public that they will be safe to continue with their lawful activities on the said day,” Ikenga stated.
“While we won’t force anyone to leave their homes, we will ensure full protection for those who choose to carry out their legal activities.”
In a statement issued on Monday, IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful explained that the group would organize memorial lectures both within Nigeria and abroad to honor the fallen heroes.
He also mentioned that IPOB family members worldwide are encouraged to apply for legal permits to protest the continued detention of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Powerful further clarified that the observance on May 30 would involve a complete shutdown of all schools, markets, places of worship, and public gatherings.
He emphasized that the day should be used by families to reflect on the devastating losses of the Biafran War.
“The IPOB movement informs Biafrans and all freedom supporters that May 30, 2025, will be observed as a public holiday and lockdown to commemorate the Biafran heroes who sacrificed everything for our independence,” said Powerful.
“The day will feature memorial lectures, both locally and internationally, culminating in Biafra Heroes Memorial Day.”
The group has requested that the West African Examinations Council adjust the exam schedule in the South-East region to align with the sit-at-home directive. Additionally, messages have been sent to governors in the South-East and South-South, notifying them of IPOB’s plans.
Powerful also stated that Biafrans living abroad should engage in public demonstrations or town hall meetings to show support for the cause and demand Biafra’s restoration.
“IPOB and Ndigbo worldwide will honor all those who died for Biafra’s independence, including our eternal leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Gen. Philip Efiong, Chief Dr. Frank Opigo, Commander Ikonso, and many other martyrs who opposed the genocide carried out by Nigerian and British forces,” the statement read.
Only essential services such as healthcare, emergency responders, and journalists will be exempt from the lockdown, and IPOB has urged all transporters to stay off the roads to avoid confrontation with security forces.
“We advise everyone to remain indoors on May 30 to avoid any unnecessary altercations or stray bullets from security personnel,” Powerful warned.
The announcement comes amid heightened concerns following violent clashes during similar events last year, particularly in Abia State, where some soldiers were reportedly killed.