The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared a sit-at-home across the South-East and parts of the South-South on May 30, 2025, to commemorate Biafran men and women who lost their lives during the Nigerian Civil War.
In a statement issued on Monday by IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful, the group announced that the sit-at-home, known as Biafra Heroes Memorial Day, is an annual event aimed at honouring those who fought and died in the struggle for Biafra’s independence. The lockdown, which will last from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., will see the suspension of all public and private activities in Biafra territory.
“The peak of the yearly memorial and remembrance event will occur on May 30th, 2025, known as the Biafra Heroes Memorial Day,” the statement read. “It is a day designated by IPOB for Biafrans to commemorate and pay tribute to our heroes, heroines, and all who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Biafra’s liberation and independence.”
IPOB emphasised that during the lockdown, all schools, markets, religious services, community meetings, and public gatherings will be suspended. Citizens are urged to remain indoors and spend the day reflecting on the events of the Biafran War (1967–1970) and the ongoing challenges faced by the Igbo people.
“We need to commemorate them by spending one day indoors. We urge all Biafrans and every advocate of freedom in Biafra land to comply with this one-day lockdown directive,” Powerful added.
The group stated it has formally notified governors in the South-East and South-South regions, as well as the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), to ensure adjustments are made to avoid conflicts with ongoing examinations.
IPOB clarified that no protests will take place within Nigeria to avoid confrontations with security forces. However, Biafrans in the diaspora are encouraged to hold demonstrations or town hall meetings in their host countries to mark the occasion and advocate for the release of IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who remains in detention.
“The safety of our people is paramount. Therefore, there will be no protests in Biafra land or anywhere in Nigeria,” the statement said.
Tributes will also be paid to prominent Biafran figures, including the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Gen. Phillip Efiong, Chief Dr. Frank Opigo, Commander Ikonso, and others who played significant roles during the Biafran struggle.
Essential workers such as doctors, nurses, journalists, ambulance drivers, police, firefighters, and fuel station attendants will be exempted from the lockdown.