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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a directive prohibiting the commemoration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day across the South-East region, in a move likely to escalate tensions between the separatist group and the federal government. This ban reflects IPOB’s long-standing rejection of Nigerian authority and its push for Biafran independence.
The separatist group on Monday declared that individuals engaging in Independence Day celebrations would be perceived as enemies of the territory, further solidifying its defiant stance against federal authority.
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has instructed Igbo residents to proceed with their daily routines or stay indoors at their discretion, while abstaining from any activities commemorating Nigeria’s Independence Day. This directive is part of IPOB’s broader effort to distance itself from Nigerian celebrations.
The group insisted that though Igbo were part of the struggle for Nigeria’s independence, the union had proven injurious to them.
“The Directorate of State of the global family and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra wishes to remind Biafrans at home and in the diaspora that the ban on the celebration of the Zoo Nigeria’s annual October 1st Independence Day by Biafrans is still in force. As a Biafran, you are to avoid any Nigeria Independence celebration globally.
“IPOB calls on Biafrans worldwide 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 every October 1st; however, such independence has taken more blood of Ndigbo to maintain than that of any other ethnic group in Nigeria.
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“Biafrans have decided to reject the bloody flag independence of Nigeria and work for the restoration of a truly united and prosperous independent State of Biafra. Therefore, every Biafran should reject this Nigerian forced unity as we look forward to celebrating Biafra’s independence soon.
“Ndigbo must adhere to this clarion call to halt every activity concerning Nigeria’s Independence tomorrow. There shall be no flying of Nigerian flags in Biafran territory. There shall be no independence activity for students in Biafraland. Everyone should go about their business or use that day for quality family time and rest at home for those who choose not to go to work or engage in business activities.
“IPOB is not joking about the restoration of Biafra’s freedom and sovereignty. Do not make yourself an enemy of the struggle by participating in Nigeria’s flag independence celebrations tomorrow. Parents and guardians must not allow their children to attend 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 than human.”
