IPOB Declares May 30 Total Lockdown to Honour Biafran Heroes

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a total sit-at-home order across Nigeria’s South-East region on Friday, May 30, 2025, to commemorate the annual Biafra Heroes Memorial Day.

In a statement released on Monday by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the group urged residents to observe a strict sit-at-home from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The directive is intended to honour all Biafran heroes and heroines who lost their lives during the struggle for self-determination and independence.

IPOB emphasized that the lockdown is not only a mark of respect for the fallen but also a precautionary measure due to past incidents where security forces allegedly attacked peaceful gatherings. The group advised that all markets, schools, banks, and transportation services remain closed during the period, with only emergency and essential services exempted.

Additionally, IPOB has reached out to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to request adjustments to exam schedules to accommodate the lockdown and ensure students are not penalized.

The Biafra Heroes Memorial Day, observed annually on May 30, commemorates those who died during the Biafran War (1967–1970) and others who have lost their lives in the ongoing pro-Biafra movement. Among those honoured are the late Biafran leader Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, General Phillip Effiong, Chief Dr. Frank Opigo, and Commander Ikonso.

Residents are encouraged to comply with the sit-at-home order to pay tribute to the sacrifices made for the Biafran cause.