IPOB bans Independence Day celebration in Nigeria’s South-East

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has banned any form of Independence Day celebration activities in the entire South-East region of Nigeria on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

In a statement issued on Monday and sighted by Diaspora Digital Media, its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, IPOB asked people of the South-East at home and in the diaspora to avoid any Nigeria’s Independence celebration.

Powerful said “IPOB calls on Biafrans (Southeasterners) 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 of independence that Nigeria celebrates annually on every October 1st, 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 of 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 the 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. 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 for their work and business.”

He warned, “IPOB is not joking with the restoration of Biafra freedom and sovereignty. Do not make yourself an enemy of the struggle by participating in Nigeria 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.”

About IPOB

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is a separatist organization in Nigeria, advocating for the independence of the Igbo people and the restoration of the Republic of Biafra.

Founded in 2012 by Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB has become a prominent and contentious force in Nigerian politics.

The movement seeks to address perceived marginalization, inequality, and oppression of the Igbo people within Nigeria, with primary objectives including achieving independence for Biafra through peaceful means, promoting Igbo culture and identity, and addressing historical injustices and human rights abuses.

IPOB’s methods and ideology have sparked intense debate, with concerns surrounding violence and militancy, hate speech, and xenophobia.

The Nigerian government has taken a firm stance against IPOB, designating it a terrorist organization in 2017 and cracking down on activists.

Despite this, IPOB’s quest for self-determination resonates with many Igbo people, who feel marginalized and excluded from Nigeria’s political and economic spheres.

The movement’s armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), has been linked to violent clashes with Nigerian security forces, further complicating the situation.

A peaceful resolution to the Biafran question requires inclusive dialogue, addressing the underlying issues driving the movement.

The Nigerian government has shown willingness to engage in dialogue, but IPOB’s conditions for talks remain unmet.

The international community has also been urged to intervene, to ensure a peaceful and lasting solution.

Ultimately, the IPOB movement represents a complex mix of historical grievances, ethnic identity, and political aspirations, requiring a nuanced and multifaceted approach to resolve.

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