IPOB bans Independence Day celebration in South-East

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has announced it had banned the celebration of Nigeria’s Independence Day across the South-East region.

The pro-Biafran group, however, asked residents of the region and the Diaspora to go about their normal business, reminding them that the ban on such celebrations is still in force.

In 2023, IPOB said it would not allow Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration in the South-East.

In a statement on Monday, IPOB Spokesman, Emma Powerful, said its Directorate of State urges Ndigbo to comply with the warning, adding that there shall be no flying of Nigerian flags in South-East on Tuesday.

The statement read in part, “The Directorate of State of IPOB wishes to remind Biafrans at home and in the diaspora that the ban on the celebration of Nigeria’s annual October 1 Independence Day by Biafrans is still in force.

“As a Biafran, you are to avoid any Nigeria Independence Day celebration globally. IPOB calls on Biafrans globally to go about their normal business because we are not part of Nigeria and have nothing to do with their British flag independence of 1960.

“We are aware that some prominent Igbo men and women played pivotal roles in securing the flag independence that Nigeria celebrates annually on October 1, however, such independence has taken more blood of Ndigbo to maintain than any other ethnic group in Nigeria.

“Biafrans have decided to reject the bloody flag independence of Nigeria and work for the restoration of a true united and prosperous Independent State of Biafra.

“Therefore, every Biafran should reject this Nigerian forced unity as we look forward to celebrating Biafra independence soon.

“Ndigbo must adhere to this clarion call to stop every activity concerning Nigeria’s independence tomorrow. There shall be no flying of Nigerian flags in Biafra territory.”

The group is directing residents to go about their businesses or use that day for family quality time and rest at home for those who may choose not to go for their work and business.

“IPOB is not joking with the restoration of Biafra freedom and sovereignty. Do not make yourself an enemy of the struggle by participating in Nigerian flag independence celebrations tomorrow.

“Parents and guardians must not allow their children to go for any Nigerian independence activities tomorrow. We are monitoring everywhere in Biafraland. As an Igbo parent, do not allow your children to be sacrificed for a country that considers them less of a human,” the statement added.

In 2021, IPOB banned the Nigerian flag in the South-East zone of the country and also declared October 1 a sit-at-home day.