The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), through its Directorate of State (DOS), has reaffirmed its ban on the celebration of Nigeria’s Independence Day on October 1st within Biafra territories. This directive applies to Biafrans both at home and in the diaspora. IPOB made it clear that Biafrans should not partake in any Nigerian Independence Day festivities, emphasizing that Biafra does not consider itself part of Nigeria.
In a statement issued by IPOB spokesperson Comrade Emma Powerful, the group called on Biafrans to continue with their usual business activities and avoid celebrating Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day. According to IPOB, Biafrans reject the so-called “flag independence” granted by Britain in 1960. While acknowledging the pivotal roles played by some Igbo leaders in the struggle for Nigerian independence, IPOB stressed that the cost of maintaining this independence has taken more lives from the Igbo community than any other ethnic group in Nigeria.
“Biafrans reject the bloody flag independence of Nigeria and are instead working towards the restoration of a united and prosperous Independent State of Biafra,” said Emma Powerful. “We urge every Biafran to reject this forced unity with Nigeria and look forward to celebrating a true Biafra Independence soon.”
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IPOB instructed that no Nigerian flags should be flown in Biafra territory on October 1st, and no Independence Day activities should be held for students. Instead, the group suggested that people could use the day for family bonding or business activities if they choose to work. IPOB also warned parents and guardians against allowing their children to participate in any Nigerian Independence Day events, emphasizing the importance of protecting the younger generation from being used by a system that, according to IPOB, treats the Igbo people unjustly.
“We are not joking about the restoration of Biafra’s freedom and sovereignty,” IPOB reiterated, adding that anyone who participates in the celebration would be seen as an enemy of the struggle. IPOB emphasized its ongoing efforts to monitor activities in Biafra land and called on Ndigbo to adhere to this directive to protect the interests of the Biafran people.
