The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB) has banned the celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day in the South-East region.
In a statement on Monday, the separatist group declared that anyone found participating in any activity marking this year’s Independence Day would be considered an enemy of the land.
It said Igbo should go about their normal business or remain in their houses if they choose to but must refrain from any form of activities to mark Nigeria’s independence.
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 1st October 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 1st October; however, such independence has taken more blood of Ndigbo to maintain than that of any other ethnic group in Nigeria.
“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”.
