The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a complete sit-at-home order on May 30, 2025, to honour the memory of those who lost their lives during the Biafran War. This annual memorial is observed across Biafra land to pay tribute to the men and women who fought and died for Biafra’s cause from 1967 to 1970.
According to a statement issued on Monday by IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful, the day will be observed not only in Nigeria but also by Biafrans living abroad. IPOB noted that the sit-at-home is a peaceful way for people to reflect on the sacrifices made by their ancestors.
The statement explained that May 30, referred to as Biafra Heroes Memorial Day, is a sacred occasion meant to honour fallen heroes, including “our everlasting leader, the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Gen Phillip Efiong, Chief Dr Frank Opigo, Commander Ikonso,” and many others. These individuals, the group says, gave everything in the fight for Biafra’s independence and in resisting the oppression they say continues today.
“Biafrans residing in Biafra land should observe a lockdown to pay tribute to those who battled and perished in the Nigerian genocidal war against Biafra,” the statement reads. “We urge all Biafrans and every advocate of freedom in Biafra Land to comply with this one-day lockdown directive on May 30, 2025.”
IPOB further noted that lectures and discussions would be held across different countries to honour the memory of Biafran war victims. These events will also focus on the ongoing detention of the group’s leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, which IPOB continues to describe as illegal.
“All IPOB family members in their various countries must organise and obtain permits to demonstrate against the unlawful imprisonment of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” the statement added.
In Nigeria, the group said there would be no protests to avoid confrontations with security forces, which IPOB accuses of using lethal force. However, Biafrans abroad are expected to hold peaceful rallies and town hall meetings.
During the lockdown, from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, all economic and social activities in Biafra land are expected to stop. There will be no school, church service, market activity, or community gathering of any kind. IPOB urges families to stay indoors and use the time to reflect on the war and the continued struggles of the Igbo people in Nigeria.
IPOB said it had already notified regional governors and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to avoid any clashes with academic activities scheduled for that day. The group is asking WAEC to adjust its timetable so students will not miss out.
Essential workers such as medical staff, emergency personnel, journalists, and fuel service operators will be exempt from the lockdown.
