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

The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has called for a region-wide sit-at-home order on Saturday, May 30, 2026, to commemorate the 59th anniversary of Biafra's declaration of independence.

The group, led by Comrade Uchenna Madu, described the day as one of "sober reflection, remembrance, and civil disobedience." MASSOB has directed that all markets, public transportation hubs, schools, and businesses remain closed from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. as a mark of honor and respect for those who sacrificed their lives during the Nigerian-Biafran civil war.

In addition to the sit-at-home order, MASSOB has also instructed churches across the South-East and parts of the South-South to conduct special memorial and thanksgiving services on Sunday, May 31, 2026. These services are intended to pay tribute to the millions who perished during the conflict.

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All markets, public and private motor parks, schools, banks, and other public business premises shall remain closed from 6 am to 4 pm on 30th May, 2026. The closure of these public places and services are marks of honor, respect, and patriotism to our fatherland. It is a mark of appreciation and acknowledgment of the numerous sacrifices and prices our fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters rendered for Biafra during the three years of war.

The secessionist group emphasized that there will be no physical demonstrations, street marches, or processions on May 30 to avoid confrontations with security agencies. MASSOB also used the occasion to express solidarity with the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, demanding his unconditional release.

Despite anticipating a heavy security presence, MASSOB urged residents to remain resolute, stating that "no amount of security intimidation, killings, detention, or oppression will ever stop the willpower of an indigenous people for self-determination."

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MASSOB knows that there will be a heavy presence of the armed Nigerian Army, Mobile Police, DSS operatives, and Civil Defence in major cities. No amount of security intimidation, killings, detention, or oppression will ever stop the willpower of an indigenous people for self-determination.