BIAFRA DAY: Tension in Southeast as IPOB and Ekpa’s Group Give Conflicting Orders

Fear and confusion grip Nigeria’s South-East as two separatist groups—IPOB, led by detained Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and Simon Ekpa’s Biafra Republic In Exile (BRGIE)—issue conflicting sit-at-home orders for this year’s Biafra Heroes Day, plunging the region into uncertainty.

The military and police have issued stern warnings to the secessionists, challenging them to act on their threats.

Since 2017, IPOB has commemorated Biafra Heroes Day on May 30, honoring those who died during the Civil War. This year, IPOB has called for a one-day stay-at-home order. IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, emphasized the importance of the day, urging all Biafrans to honor their fallen heroes by shutting down all operations on May 30.

In contrast, BRGIE’s leader, Simon Ekpa, announced a sit-at-home order from May 29 to 31, linking it to a self-referendum vote. This has left citizens bewildered, unsure of which directive to follow and fearful of the consequences of making the wrong choice.

Security forces have assured the public of their readiness to maintain order, yet their warnings to the separatist groups have heightened the region’s tension. The Defence Headquarters warned IPOB against enforcing their sit-at-home order, asserting that the military would decisively handle any defiance.

IPOB’s warning to Nnamdi Azikiwe University and WAEC to postpone their events scheduled for May 30 has further complicated matters. The university has since rescheduled its convocation ceremony, citing government commitments as the reason.

Police in various states, including Ebonyi, Imo, and Anambra, have declared their preparedness to protect residents and maintain law and order, urging people to go about their daily activities without fear. However, the presence of conflicting orders and security warnings has many residents bracing for potential violence.

Community leaders and residents express mixed feelings, with some supporting the commemoration but rejecting violence, while others prioritize safety and livelihood over the sit-at-home directive. As Biafra Heroes Day approaches, the region remains on edge, preparing for an uncertain and possibly tumultuous period.