Biafra Day: MASSOB orders May 30 sit-at-home, church memorials

The leadership of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra has instructed all churches in the South-East and parts of the South-South to hold special memorial and thanksgiving services on Sunday, May 31, 2026.

The organization indicated that these services aim to honor and pay tribute to the millions who lost their lives during the Nigerian-Biafran civil war.

This directive is part of the series of events commemorating the 59th anniversary of Biafra's declaration by the late General Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu on May 30, 1967.

Edeson Samuel, the National Director of Information for MASSOB, announced this in an official press release issued on Monday.

The statement noted that the faction of the movement led by Comrade Uchenna Madu characterized this year’s anniversary as a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle for self-determination.

In conjunction with the commemoration, the secessionist group had previously announced a mandatory sit-at-home order for Saturday, May 30, 2026, throughout the region, which it referred to as a day of sober reflection, remembrance, and civil disobedience.

Samuel remarked, “MASSOB has previously declared that all markets, public and private motor parks, schools, banks, and other public business establishments shall remain closed from 6 am to 4 pm on May 30, 2026.

“The closure of these public venues and services serves as a mark of honor, respect, and patriotism towards our homeland. It is a gesture of appreciation and recognition of the countless sacrifices made by our fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters for Biafra during the three years of conflict.”

However, the pro-Biafra group advised its members to refrain from any public gatherings that could result in confrontations with security forces.

The statement stressed that there would be no physical demonstrations, street marches, processions, or any other public events anywhere in the region on May 30.

The organization also expressed that it is utilizing the 59th anniversary to demonstrate solidarity with the imprisoned leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, while calling for his immediate and unconditional release from state detention.

Recognizing the potential for significant security forces to be deployed in major cities throughout the region in anticipation of the anniversary, MASSOB encouraged residents to remain steadfast.

"MASSOB is aware that there will be a substantial presence of the armed Nigerian Army, Mobile Police, DSS operatives, and Civil Defence in key urban areas. No level of security intimidation, killings, detentions, or oppression will ever deter the determination of an indigenous people seeking self-determination," the statement concluded.