IPOB announces May 30 lockdown to honour Biafran heroes

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared a lockdown on May 30, 2025, as part of an annual event to commemorate the Biafran heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives during the defunct Republic of Biafra’s struggle.

The group emphasized that this lockdown serves as a yearly day of remembrance for those who gave their all for Biafra’s cause.

IPOB noted that it has informed the Governors of the South East and South South regions about the planned lockdown and the memorial for Biafran heroes.

IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, stated that the event will include memorial lectures to honour Biafran heroes, both within the country and abroad, as has been done in previous years.

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“The peak of the annual memorial will take place on May 30th, 2025, which we observe as Biafra Heroes Memorial Day,” the group said in a statement. “This day, designated by IPOB, serves as a time for Biafrans to reflect on and honor our heroes, heroines, and those who gave their lives in the fight for Biafra’s independence and liberation. May 30, 2025, will be a free day, a full lockdown for all Biafrans in Biafra Land.”

The statement further explained that those in Biafra Land are urged to remain indoors as a tribute to those who fought and perished in the Nigeria-Biafra war. “We ask that all Biafrans spend this day inside, remembering our fallen heroes,” it said. “We call on all Biafrans and freedom advocates in Biafra Land to comply with this lockdown on May 30, 2025.”

Additionally, IPOB has called on its members around the world to secure permits for demonstrations advocating for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who remains imprisoned in Nigeria.

The lockdown will mean no schools, community gatherings, religious services, markets, or public events of any kind, the group said.

“Take the day to stay inside, enjoy time with family, watch television, reflect on the atrocities committed against Biafrans from 1967 to today, and recount the experiences of the Biafran genocide and the ongoing marginalization of Ndigbo,” the statement added.

IPOB also informed the West African Examination Council (WAEC) of the lockdown, urging adjustments to the May/June SSCE exam schedule. Similarly, messages have been sent to the Governors of the South East and South South regions regarding the lockdown and memorial observances.

However, IPOB made it clear that there will be no protests in Biafra Land or elsewhere in Nigeria to avoid confrontations with Nigerian security forces. “No protests will take place in Biafra or anywhere in Nigeria to avoid any harm from the Nigerian Security Forces,” it said. “Biafrans abroad will demonstrate in their host countries or organize town hall meetings to express support for our fallen heroes and the restoration of Biafra.”

The group emphasized that May 30th is a public holiday for all Biafrans, both citizens and non-citizens in Biafra territory.

“IPOB is committed to the well-being of Ndigbo, and we have found ways to protect our people from further harm as we continue to honor our heroes,” it concluded.

The lockdown will last from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with exemptions for essential workers such as emergency service providers, police officers, healthcare personnel, journalists, and NUPENG members.