The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a total lockdown of the South-East on the 30th of May, 2026, to mark what it describes as “Biafran Heroes and Heroines Remembrance Day.”
The directive was said to be contained in a statement issued by the group’s Directorate of State and signed by its spokesman, Mr C. Okadigbo.
The group said May 30 was a day to remember those who died fighting for Biafran self-determination, especially during the Nigerian civil war.
“On May 30th we take a moment to remember and honour the men, women and children who gave their lives fighting for Biafra’s freedom.
“Struggling for our freedom from 1967 – 2026. “Our history and identity are indelibly defined by their sacrifice in the struggle for our self-determination,” the statement said.
The IPOB appealed to the people of the area to observe the day for reflection and symbolic memorial activities.
“We encourage everyone to take time on this day to reflect on their courage and bravery, tell their stories and pay respects to the families who still carry the weight of that loss.
“Light a candle, observe a minute of silence and reverence, or come together with your families and share memories,” the group said.
IPOB described the occasion as solemn, saying the sacrifices of those it called “fallen heroes and heroines” must never be forgotten.
“May 30th is a day of sober reflection, let us keep alive the memories of those who died for the cause of Biafra, and let their sacrifice remind us why the ideals of freedom, dignity and justice for which they paid the ultimate price must not be forgotten or allowed to be extinguished,” it added.
12-hour total lock down
The group said there would be a total shutdown of activities across what it described as “Biafraland” from 6am to 6pm on the said date.
“On the 30th of May 2026, the whole Biafraland will be on TOTAL LOCKDOWN from 6am to 6pm at sunset, stay indoors and pray with your family and friends and perform your rituals and prayers according to your faith and belief,” the statement read.
IPOB said there would be no movement of vehicles during the period except emergency services.
“There will be no vehicular movement except for emergency vehicles. All markets and offices will be shut.
It added, “School owners and administrators and parents are encouraged to keep their children and wards at home, market leaders, banks, parks, transport companies, etc., are enjoined to inform their members to avoid falling victim to trigger happy Nigeria terrorist security officers.”
The group also said it had alerted governors in the South-East and other stakeholders about the planned lockdown.
“The DOS has formally informed all governors in Biafraland of this forthcoming May 30th 2026, Biafran Heroes and Heroines Remembrance Day. “The leadership will also officially notify other stakeholders by the start of next week,” the statement said.
IPOB reaffirmed its position and called for the continued remembrance of those it described as fallen fighters.
We remember them! We pay them tribute! “We MUST not forget their sacrifice,” the group said.
The announcement is expected to heighten security concerns and public debate across the South-East as the date draws closer.
