Police Reject IPOB’s May 30 Sit-at-Home Order, Assure Public of Unhindered Movement

The Nigerian Police Force has strongly opposed the Indigenous People of Biafra’s (IPOB) planned sit-at-home order for May 30, 2025, and has reassured residents of the South-East that their daily activities will proceed without disruption.

IPOB announced the lockdown as part of its observance of the Biafran Heroes Day, an annual event marking the lives lost during the Nigerian Civil War. The separatist group declared that the sit-at-home would take effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 30, urging residents to stay home in solidarity with the fallen heroes.

However, in response to this directive, the Nigerian police particularly the Anambra State Command have made it clear that no group has the authority to impose such restrictions on citizens’ rights to free movement. The police emphasized that they will take action against any attempts to enforce the lockdown, ensuring that businesses, markets, and other public spaces remain open and functional on that day.

A statement from the police urged the public to go about their normal activities, assuring that adequate security measures will be in place to protect lives and properties in the region. The police have also warned that those attempting to enforce the IPOB order will face legal consequences.

The police have further called on local community leaders, civil society organizations, and religious groups to help spread the message that the lockdown is illegal and to encourage the public to ignore the directive. They urged everyone to report any illegal actions or attempts to disrupt peace to the nearest security agency.

With the Biafran Day observance approaching, authorities are making it clear that the rule of law will prevail, and South-East residents should expect no interruptions to their routine activities.