The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a region-wide sit-at-home event scheduled for May 30th in the Southeast.
This decision, according to IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful, is intended to pay tribute to the Biafran heroes who lost their lives during the 1967-1970 civil war. In a statement, Powerful emphasized that all facets of daily life, including schools, government offices, private businesses, banks, transportation services, and markets, should suspend operations on that day.
The statement highlights May 30th as a significant day for Biafrans to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the cause of Biafra’s independence. It calls for solemn reflection on the immense human toll exacted during the Nigerian-Biafran conflict and urges Biafrans both within and outside the region to observe the sit-at-home in honor of the fallen heroes.
While acknowledging the critical role of essential services like healthcare, the directive exempts only those engaged in urgent duties, such as medical personnel, from participating in the sit-at-home.
Furthermore, the statement encourages adherents of Christianity and traditional religions to utilize the day for prayers, seeking divine intervention for the departed heroes and for the realization of Biafra’s independence aspirations.
Lastly, it calls upon Biafrans residing in other parts of Nigeria to also participate in the commemoration by staying indoors, underscoring the universal significance of honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the Biafran cause.