KEY POINTS

• Indigenous People of Biafra has declared a total lockdown across the South-East on May 30, 2026, for Biafran Remembrance Day.
• The sit-at-home order will run from 6am to 6pm, with markets, schools, offices and transport activities expected to shut down.
• IPOB said the day is meant to honour people who died during the Biafran struggle and urged residents to observe prayers and reflection activities.

Indigenous People of Biafra, widely known as IPOB, has announced a total lockdown across the South-East region on May 30, 2026, to mark what it described as “Biafran Heroes and Heroines Remembrance Day.”

The directive was contained in a statement released by the group’s Directorate of State and signed by its spokesperson, Mr C. Okadigbo.

According to the group, the annual event is meant to honour people who lost their lives during the Biafran struggle and the Nigerian Civil War.

IPOB said the remembrance is aimed at keeping alive the memories of those who died while fighting for what the group described as Biafra’s freedom and self-determination.

In the statement, IPOB urged residents across the South-East to use the day for prayers, reflection and remembrance activities with family members.

The group encouraged people to light candles, observe moments of silence and share stories about those who died during the civil war and the broader agitation for Biafra.

According to IPOB, the remembrance day is not just symbolic but also a period to reflect on the ideals of freedom, justice and dignity which it said the fallen individuals fought for.

The group described May 30 as a solemn occasion that should unite supporters in honouring the sacrifices made during the Biafran struggle.

Total Shutdown To Last 12 Hours

IPOB announced that the lockdown would begin at 6am and end at 6pm on May 30, 2026.

The group stated that there would be no movement within the region during the period except for emergency and essential services.

It added that markets, offices, schools, transport operations and business activities are expected to remain closed throughout the day.

The organisation also urged parents to keep their children at home and advised transport operators, traders and business owners to comply with the directive.

According to the statement, the lockdown is intended to ensure full participation in the remembrance activities.

The group warned residents against unnecessary movement during the lockdown period, citing security concerns.

IPOB claimed that members of the public could become victims of security operatives if they ignored the sit-at-home order.

The organisation said banks, market leaders, transport unions and other stakeholders should inform their members about the planned shutdown to avoid confusion or confrontation.

The statement further noted that only emergency vehicles would be allowed to operate during the 12-hour restriction.