The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern warning to Ndigbo, both in Nigeria and abroad, urging them to refrain from participating in Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebrations.
The group emphasized that Biafrans are not part of the celebration and advised individuals to continue their usual activities instead.
In a statement released on Monday, IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, reiterated that the ban on celebrating Nigeria’s October 1st Independence Day remains in force for Biafrans. He urged them to avoid any involvement in independence-related events globally.
“The Directorate of State (DOS) of the global family and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) wishes to remind Biafrans at home and in the diaspora that the ban on the celebration of the Nigeria annual October 1st Independence Day by Biafrans is still in force. As a Biafran, you’re to avoid any Nigeria Independence celebration globally,” the statement read.
The group further acknowledged that some prominent Igbo figures played significant roles in securing Nigeria’s independence, but asserted that Biafrans should reject what they termed a “forced unity.”
Powerful added, “We are not part of Nigeria and have nothing to do with them. Biafrans should reject this Nigerian forced unity as we look forward to celebrating the Biafra independence soon.”
IPOB also instructed that there should be no flying of Nigerian flags in Biafran territories or any independence activities in schools. Instead, the group encouraged Biafrans to use the day for regular business or spend quality time with their families.
The statement concluded with a clear directive: “There shall be no independence activity for students in Biafraland. Everyone should go about their businesses or use that day for family quality time and rest at home for those who may choose not to go to work.”
This call reflects IPOB’s continued push for the actualization of an independent Biafra, further distancing itself from Nigeria’s national celebrations.