Announcing a significant move, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared May 30, 2024, as a day for a sit-at-home protest across the South-East region in remembrance of the Biafran soldiers.
In recognition of the sacrifices made by these soldiers during the Biafran war from 1967 to 1970 and beyond, the pro-Biafran group emphasized the importance of this annual event.
According to a press release by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, every individual of Biafran descent in the South-East is urged to stay at home and contemplate the impact of the war.
Powerful urged the residents of the South-East to refrain from unnecessary movement on this day, advising those planning to travel to or from Biafra land to do so before the evening of May 29.
The statement issued by IPOB stated, “We, the global family of IPOB, hereby declare Thursday, May 30, 2024, as a sit-at-home day in Biafra land for all Biafrans, supporters of Biafra, advocates for freedom, and all inhabitants within Biafra Land.
“Every year, on May 30, we commemorate our heroes and heroines who made the ultimate sacrifice for our survival, before, during, and after the war against Biafrans between 1967 and 1970 and beyond.
“To pay tribute to our fallen heroes and heroines, Biafrans are called upon to observe a one-day sit-at-home as a mark of respect to the spirits of our departed heroes who fought for our existence. It is expected that every Biafran in Biafra territory will observe this tradition by staying at home on this day, reflecting on the cost of the forced unity known as Nigeria that has claimed millions of Biafran lives.
“Other Biafrans residing outside Biafra territory are encouraged to honor our heroes by observing the sit-at-home if possible or by minimizing their activities on this day.”
The group further directed that all schools, government offices, private establishments, banks, transportation unions, market associations, and individuals should cease all operations in honor of the fallen heroes and heroines.
Exceptions to this directive include institutions and individuals involved in essential services such as healthcare workers, ambulance services, hospitals, and medical personnel, who are permitted to operate on that day.
“We appeal to Christians and adherents of traditional religions to utilize this day for prayers to Chukwu Okike Abiama for the souls of the departed heroes, and to petition for Biafra’s independence from the violent entity called Nigeria.
“Heroes Remembrance Day serves as a solemn moment for Biafrans to recall and pay homage to our fallen heroes who were ruthlessly murdered between 1967 and 1970 during the genocidal war against Ndigbo and beyond. Biafrans living in the Northern and Western regions of Nigeria are urged to participate by staying indoors to commemorate and reflect on our fallen heroes and heroines who perished so that we could live.
“During this special event, members of IPOB are to light candles in memory of our fallen heroes. Heroes such as our eternal leader, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Retired General Phillip Efiong, Col. Achuzie (Air Raid), Frank Opigo, Okonkon Dem, Sam Mbakwe, Akanu Ibiam, and numerous others who greatly contributed to the survival of Biafrans during the war led by the Nigerian military.
IPOB emphasized that all residents of “Biafra Land” are required to remain indoors from 6 am to 6 pm on May 30, 2024.
“Although IPOB and ESN will not enforce the sit-at-home mandate, individuals of Biafran descent are urged to prioritize their safety. We urge you to stay at home on Thursday, May 30, 2024, to honor the heroes and heroines of Biafra. Do not jeopardize your safety,” concluded the statement.