The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced a total lockdown across the South-East region on May 30, 2026, to mark what it described as “Biafran Heroes and Heroines Remembrance Day.”
News360 Info reports that the directive was contained in a statement issued by the group’s Directorate of State and signed by its spokesperson, Mr C. Okadigbo.
According to the group, May 30 is dedicated to honouring those who lost their lives in the struggle for Biafra’s self-determination, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War.
“On May 30th, we pause to remember and honour the men, women, and children who lost their lives fighting for Biafra’s freedom.
“Fighting for our freedom from 1967 to 2026. Their sacrifice in the struggle for our self-determination remains a defining part of our history and identity,” the statement read.
IPOB urged residents of the region to observe the day through reflection and symbolic acts of remembrance.
“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 moment of silence and reverence, or gather with your families to share memories,” the group stated.
Describing the occasion as solemn, IPOB said the sacrifices of those it referred to as “fallen heroes and heroines” must not 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 shutdown
The group declared that there would be a complete shutdown of activities across what it termed “Biafraland” from 6am to 6pm on the said date.
“For their sacrifices, the leadership of IPOB, the DOS wish to inform the public that on the 30th of May 2026, from 6am to 6pm at sunset, the entire Biafraland will be on TOTAL LOCKDOWN, 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 stated that there would be no vehicular movement during the period, except for emergency services.
“There will be no vehicular movement save emergency vehicles. All markets and offices will be closed.
“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,” it added.
The group also claimed that it had notified governors in the South-East and other stakeholders about the planned lockdown.
“The DOS has officially informed all the governors in Biafraland about this upcoming May 30th 2026, Biafran Heroes and Heroines Remembrance Day. The leadership will also officially inform other stakeholders by the start of next week,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its position, IPOB called for continued remembrance of those it described as fallen fighters.
“We remember them! We honour them! We MUST not forget their sacrifice,” the group declared.
The announcement is expected to heighten security concerns and public debate across the South-East as the date approaches.
