The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared a total lockdown across the Southeast on May 30, 2025, in commemoration of what it calls Biafra Heroes Memorial Day.
In a statement issued on Monday, IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful said the day has been set aside to honour those who lost their lives in the struggle for Biafra’s liberation and self-determination.
According to Powerful, “The esteemed family and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) informs Biafrans, supporters of Biafra, and advocates for Biafra freedom that May 30, 2025, is now designated a public holiday and a lockdown throughout Biafra Land in honor and commemoration of Biafra heroes and heroines who made the ultimate sacrifice for our present existence.”
He explained that the lockdown would serve as a symbolic gesture of remembrance and unity, urging residents of the Southeast to remain indoors throughout the day.
“The public holiday and lockdown is an annual Memorial and Remembrance Day for Biafra Heroes and Heroines among Biafrans. Anticipation has begun as of May 1, 2025, with broadcasts from Radio Biafra and media awareness efforts by the IPOB media team,” he stated.
Powerful noted that IPOB would also hold memorial lectures throughout the month of May, both within Nigeria and abroad, to honour the legacy of Biafran figures who lost their lives in the civil conflict and the ongoing separatist movement.
“The peak of the yearly memorial and remembrance event will occur on May 30, 2025, known as the BIAFRA HEROES MEMORIAL DAY,” the statement continued. “It is a day designated by IPOB for Biafrans to commemorate and pay tribute to our heroes, heroines, and those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Biafra’s liberation and independence.”
The group warned residents of the Southeast against going out on that day, citing concerns over possible clashes with security forces.
“We recommend that everyone refrain from going outside and remain indoors in your homes on May 30th to steer clear of gunfire from the ethnic prejudice of the Nigerian Police and Military, who will be present on the streets of Biafra seeking any chance to unjustly shed the blood of innocent Biafrans. If you decide to ignore this lockdown order, whatever occurs to you, please hold no one responsible,” the statement read.
The group also directed transport operators to suspend all operations on the day in observance of the memorial.
“IPOB prioritizes the well-being of Ndigbo and has discovered methods to prevent the Nigerian State from killing our people as we continue to remember and celebrate our heroes. All transporters must refrain from using the roads on Friday, May 30, 2025,” it concluded.
The Federal Government has yet to respond to the announcement.
