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| The group described May 30 as a “sacred” occasion to honor those who died during the 1967-1970 Nigerian Civil War and in the ongoing campaign for Biafran self-determination. |
— ENUGU, Nigeria
Separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called for a general lockdown in southeastern Nigeria on Friday, May 30, 2026, to commemorate Biafra Heroes Day.
In a statement, the IPOB spokesperson ordered residents of the five southeastern states and parts of the south to stay in their homes, suspending all business, school, transportation, and public activities for the day.
The group described May 30 as a “sacred” occasion to honor those who died during the 1967-1970 Nigerian Civil War and in the ongoing campaign for Biafran self-determination.
IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu remains in custody facing terrorism-related charges, for which he was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, a sentence widely condemned.
The annual stay-at-home orders issued by IPOB are generally well-received in the region, but they frequently disrupt the economy, education, and daily life.
“We welcome the directive and will comply,” Henry Ibezi told Gazette Africa in Enugu, adding that “it is to honor those who died fighting for justice and Biafra’s independence.”