In preparation for the upcoming “Biafra Heroes Day” on May 30, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a strong directive to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) to reschedule their planned events for the day. This directive prompts both WAEC to reschedule its examinations and UNIZIK to move its convocation ceremony to a different date.
Stay-at-Home Order
IPOB, known for its strong stance on Biafran independence, has declared May 30 a stay-at-home day for all Biafrans. They urge everyone within Biafra land to observe this day by staying indoors to commemorate the sacrifices made during the 1967-1970 civil war. This directive impacts both WAEC’s scheduled examinations and UNIZIK’s convocation ceremony, prompting them to move these events to a different date.
Public Safety Concerns
The group’s recent press release highlights concerns about public safety, stressing that they will restrict movements of persons and vehicles on May 30. They will only make exceptions for essential services such as healthcare, emergency services, and critical infrastructure operations. Powerful warned that conducting public events on this day could jeopardize the safety of individuals, especially students participating in the WAEC examinations.
Sacredness of Biafra Heroes Day
Emma Powerful reiterated the sacredness of Biafra Heroes Day, describing it as a day of remembrance and honour for those who perished in the struggle for Biafran independence. He called on WAEC and UNIZIK to respect this solemn occasion by postponing their events, ensuring that no public gatherings take place. The statement also underscored the potential dangers for anyone ignoring the sit-at-home order, recalling past instances where Nigerian security forces clashed with civilians during similar directives.
IPOB’s Open Letter
IPOB’s open letter to the management of UNIZIK and WAEC explicitly states that any defiance of the sit-at-home order will be at the peril of those involved. They urged parents, students, and guests to avoid travelling on this day to ensure their safety. The group has historically used such stay-at-home orders to solidify unity among Biafrans and to send a strong message about their ongoing quest for recognition and independence.
Concerns Over Academic Disruptions
The directive from IPOB has raised concerns among students and parents about the potential disruption of academic activities. However, IPOB insists that the respect and honour of their fallen heroes take precedence over all other activities. They warned that failure to comply could lead to unintended consequences, emphasizing the need for compliance to avoid any regrettable incidents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, IPOB’s call for a rescheduling of events on May 30 underscores the deep-rooted sentiment and historical significance attached to Biafra Heroes Day. Both WAEC and UNIZIK are yet to respond to the directive. As the date approaches, we will see how these institutions navigate the demands of IPOB while addressing the concerns of their stakeholders.
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