The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced May 30 as a sit-at-home day to commemorate Biafra Remembrance Day, honoring Nigerians of South-East origin who died during the 1967-70 civil war. IPOB has issued a warning to the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Anambra State against holding its convocation ceremony on this day.
In an open letter addressed to the Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK and the management of the West African Examination Council (WAEC), IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, urged the rescheduling of any events planned for May 30. The group emphasized that this date is sacred for all Biafrans as it is dedicated to honoring those who sacrificed their lives during the Nigerian civil war.
IPOB stated, “If you consider yourself a Biafran, you ought to know that May 30 is Biafra Heroes Day. We remind the university management and WAEC that May 30 is set aside to honor Biafran heroes and heroines who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the survival of Biafrans.”
The group stressed that no public events should take place in the South-East region on this day. “Biafra Heroes Day is a public holiday and a sit-at-home day in Biafra Land. All markets, schools, banks, government, and private offices are expected to be closed,” IPOB declared.
They also warned against the movement of persons and vehicles, except for those involved in essential services such as health workers, ambulance services, fire services, and hospitals. “The WAEC board should not endanger the lives of children by conducting exams on this day, as it is not safe for anyone in Biafra territory. They must reschedule to another day,” the group stated.
IPOB cautioned that if any harm befalls those who ignore this directive, the responsible parties will regret their decision. “By this open letter, IPOB is calling on the Vice-Chancellor and the management of UNIZIK, as well as any other groups, to postpone their programs scheduled for May 30, 2024,” they asserted.
The group emphasized that Biafra Heroes Day takes precedence over any other events in the region. “If the Vice-Chancellor and the management of UNIZIK insist on holding their convocation on May 30, 2024, they will be disrespecting the graves of Biafran heroes and heroines and must be prepared to take responsibility for any consequences,” IPOB warned.
While IPOB mentioned that they will not enforce the sit-at-home order, they clarified that they will not be held accountable for any incidents involving those who violate the directive.
