IPOB Declares Ban on Nigeria’s Independence Day Celebrations in Southeast
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have officially announced a ban on the celebration of Nigeria’s Independence Day across the Southeast region on October 1. In a statement from their spokesman, Emma Powerful, the group clarified that no Nigerian flags should be displayed and there will be no official Independence Day activities for students.
Despite the ban, IPOB encourages local business owners to continue their regular operations during this time. The IPOB Directorate of State reiterated their position, reminding the Igbo community both at home and abroad that the prohibition on celebrating Nigeria’s annual Independence Day remains firmly in place.
Their message emphasized a strong call for Biafrans to distance themselves from any festivities associated with Nigeria, reinforcing their desire for an independent Biafra. The statement declared: “The Directorate of State (DOS) of the Indigenous People of Biafra reminds all Biafrans, both locally and in the diaspora, that the ban on Nigeria’s October 1st Independence Day celebrations is still in effect. Biafrans are urged to avoid any form of Nigerian Independence celebration worldwide.”
The group acknowledged the contributions of some prominent Igbo figures in the fight for Nigeria’s independence but pointed out that this independence has come at a great cost to the Igbo community. They stated, “While we recognize that certain Igbo leaders played significant roles in securing Nigeria’s independence, it has resulted in more suffering for Ndigbo than for any other ethnic group in Nigeria.”
IPOB emphasized their commitment to rejecting what they described as Nigeria’s “bloody flag independence” and their determination to work towards a unified, independent, and prosperous State of Biafra. “We call on all Biafrans to dismiss this imposed unity and to look forward to the day we can celebrate Biafra’s independence,” they urged.
They further instructed all Ndigbo to adhere to this directive, stating, “There will be no flying of Nigerian flags in Biafra territory, and no Independence Day activities for students. Instead, we encourage everyone to engage in their daily activities or spend quality time with family at home.”
IPOB reiterated their seriousness regarding the struggle for Biafran freedom and sovereignty. They cautioned against participating in Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations, urging parents to protect their children from being involved in events they view as demeaning. The statement concluded with a strong reminder: “As guardians of our future, it is essential to not allow our children to be sacrificed for a nation that disregards their humanity.”
