The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared a total lockdown throughout the South-East region on May 30, 2026, to commemorate what it called “Biafran Heroes and Heroines Remembrance Day.”
The directive was in a statement signed by the group’s spokesman Mr C. Okadigbo and issued by the Directorate of State.
The group said May 30 was a day to remember those who died 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.
“Fight for our freedom 1967 – 2026. “Their sacrifice in the struggle for our self-determination is a defining part of our history and identity,” the statement said.
The IPOB called on the people of the area to mark the day with reflection and symbolic memorial activities.
“We encourage everyone to take time on this day to reflect on their courage and bravery, to tell their stories, and to pay respect to the families who still carry the weight of that loss.
“Light a candle, hold a minute of silence and reverence, or gather with your families to share memories,” the group said.
IPOB called the occasion solemn and said 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 said.
12-hour total lockdown
The group said there would be a total shutdown of activities across what it described as “Biafraland” between 6am and 6pm on the said date.
“On the 30th of May 2026, the entire 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 no vehicles would be allowed to move during the period except emergency services.
“There shall be no vehicular movement, except for emergency vehicles. All markets and offices will be shut.
It also said: “School owners and administrators and parents are advised to keep their children and wards at home, market leaders, banks, parks, transport companies etc are advised 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 on the planned lockdown.
“The DOS has formally notified all the governors in Biafraland about this forthcoming May 30th 2026, Biafran Heroes and Heroines Remembrance Day. “The leadership will also formally notify other stakeholders by the beginning of next week,” the statement said.
IPOB reiterated its position and urged continued remembrance of what it called fallen fighters.
We remember them! We pay them tribute! “We will not forget their sacrifice,” the group said.
The announcement is expected to increase security concerns and public debate across the South-East as the date nears.
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