IPOB Declares One-Day Total Shutdown of South-East, Cites Reasons

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a total sit-at-home order across Nigeria’s South-East on Friday, May 30, 2025, in honour of Biafra Heroes Memorial Day. The separatist group says the day is reserved for solemn remembrance of all Biafran men and women who lost their lives during the Nigerian Civil War and in the ongoing struggle for Biafran independence.

In a statement released Monday, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, said the lockdown will run from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and urged residents of the region, along with all supporters of the Biafran movement, to comply fully by staying indoors. He stressed that the sit-at-home is not only a mark of respect but also a precaution, citing past incidents in which commemorative gatherings were allegedly targeted by security forces.

Describing the observance as a “solemn act of remembrance,” IPOB instructed that no markets, schools, churches, or social activities should operate during the lockdown. Only emergency and essential services are exempt. The directive also affects road, air, and sea transport across the South-East, with a warning to transporters to suspend operations for the day.

IPOB added that it has contacted the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to request schedule adjustments for students in affected areas, to avoid disruptions to their exams. The group also called on its supporters abroad to hold peaceful rallies and town hall meetings in their host countries, seeking international recognition of Biafra and advocating for the release of their detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. However, IPOB insisted that no demonstrations should take place within Nigeria to prevent violent confrontations with security agencies.

The Biafra Heroes Memorial Day, observed annually on May 30, commemorates those who died in the Biafran War (1967–1970) and others who have perished in connection with the Biafra movement. IPOB highlighted several key figures to be honoured this year, including the late Biafran leader Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, General Phillip Effiong, Chief Dr. Frank Opigo, and Commander Ikonso.

Ahead of the memorial, IPOB plans to run a series of radio broadcasts and media programmes through Radio Biafra to educate and mobilise its supporters. The group concluded its statement with a renewed call for unity, urging people of the South-East to observe the lockdown with discipline and reflection.