The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has called on governors in the South East and South South regions to formally declare May 30 as a public holiday in honour of those who died during the Nigerian civil war.
May 30 is annually observed as Biafra Day by pro-Biafra activists and sympathizers across the South East. The day serves as a solemn remembrance for the men, women, and children who lost their lives during the conflict that took place between 1967 and 1970.
In a statement issued on Friday, IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, urged regional leaders to emulate the South West governors and political leaders who successfully lobbied for June 12 to be recognized nationally as Democracy Day in memory of the late Chief MKO Abiola.
“IPOB seizes this moment of reflection to urge the Governors in Biafra Land, especially the South East and South South Governors, to establish May 30th as a public holiday to commemorate the fallen heroes of Biafra moving forward,” the statement read.
According to Powerful, “The request to commemorate the Biafran Heroes and Heroines with a public holiday is a fair request.
“Similar to how South West leaders advocated for and commemorated MKO Abiola with June 12 as Democracy Day and a public holiday, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Igbo Governors should have the bravery to advance the initiative to honor Biafra Heroes with a public holiday.”
Until such a declaration is made, Powerful affirmed that IPOB will continue to observe May 30 as Biafra Heroes Day both within and outside Nigeria.
“To all dedicated IPOB members, we honor your bravery and determination. We will not back down or give up until Biafra is completely reinstated,” he added.
The group’s renewed call comes amid rising agitation in the region for the recognition of historical grievances and the preservation of cultural identity.
