The Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB has announced that it will observe a sit at home across parts of the South-East on May 30, 2026, in remembrance of those who d during the Biafran War between 1967 and 1970.
The group made the declaration through its spokesperson Emma Powerful, stating that the day is intended as a solemn memorial for Biafran men and women who lost their lives during the conflict. IPOB described the remembrance as a sacred obligation rather than a political action.
According to the statement, the sit at home is expected to be observed strictly across towns and cities in the region, with residents at home and in the diaspora urged to refrain from commercial, social, and political activities during the period of remembrance.
IPOB said the event is dedicated to honouring what it described as heroes and es who d in defence of their people and identity during the civil war, adding that the sacrifices of that generation should not be forgotten or reduced to historical footnotes.
The group also called on governors across the South-East to fly the Nigerian flag at half mast on May 30 as a symbolic gesture of respect for those who d during and after the war.
In its statement, IPOB referenced historical events from the 1967 to 1970 conflict, noting the suffering, blockade, and military pressure faced during the war, while insisting that remembrance remains a moral duty for present generations.
The organisation also recalled past incidents during earlier remembrance activities, including clashes in Nkpor and Onitsha, describing them as part of the historical burden of the struggle.
IPOB clarified that the May 30 sit at home is separate from previous Monday sit at home directives which were later cancelled by its leadership earlier in 2026 following internal policy ces.
The group reiterated that the annual May 30 observance remains a fixed day of reflection and honour for the dead, insisting that it is not linked to political protest or current governance issues.
Security agencies and state authorities have in the past expressed concern over sit at home directives in the South-East due to their economic and security impact, although IPOB maintains that the May 30 observance is symbolic and commemorative in nature.
As preparations for the date begin, residents, traders, and businesses across the region are expected to monitor developments closely amid ongoing debates about the historical, political, and social implications of the remembrance day.
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