The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a warning to Igbos, both at home and abroad, to refrain from celebrating Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day.
In a statement signed by its spokesman, Emma Powerful, IPOB’s Directorate of State declared that there should be no display of the Nigerian flag, no Independence Day activities for students, and urged businesses to continue their lawful activities across the Southeast.
IPOB emphasized that Biafra is on the path to actualization and distanced itself from Nigeria’s Independence celebrations. The group stated: “IPOB calls on Biafrans globally to go about their normal business because we are not part of Nigeria and have nothing to do with them.”
They also acknowledged that some prominent Igbo figures had played significant roles in securing Nigeria’s independence but insisted that Ndigbo must reject the country’s “forced unity” as they anticipate celebrating Biafra’s own independence in the future. IPOB added that there should be no flying of Nigerian flags in Biafra territory and no participation in Independence Day activities by students.
The group advised: “Everyone should go about their businesses or use the day for family quality time and rest at home, for those who choose not to go to work.”
In response, the Imo State Police Command, alongside other security agencies, has heightened security measures across the state. The Command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, revealed that security personnel have been deployed to ensure a peaceful Independence Day celebration, following threats from IPOB and its militia wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Okoye stated, “Joint patrols and confidence-building measures are actively underway to deter criminal activities and reassure citizens.” He urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities through dedicated channels, reinforcing the shared commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.
