Anniversary marks 58 years since Ojukwu’s Biafra declaration; MASSOB promises non-violence and voluntary compliance
The Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), led by Comrade Uchenna Madu, has declared May 30, 2025, as Biafra Day Celebration, marking the 58th anniversary of the declaration of the Republic of Biafra by General Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu on May 30, 1967.
In a press release signed by Comrade Edeson Samuel, MASSOB’s National Director of Information, the group announced that this year’s Biafra Day will be commemorated with a sit-at-home exercise across Biafraland.
Public Services to Shut Down from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
MASSOB stated that in the spirit of Biafranism and unity among pro-Biafra groups and citizens, all markets, public and private motor parks, schools, banks, and other public business premises shall remain closed from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 30.
The group described the closure of public spaces as a mark of honour, respect, and patriotism to Biafra, noting it is an expression of gratitude to the sacrifices of Biafran heroes and heroines during the civil war.
“It is a mark of appreciation and acknowledgement of the numerous sacrifices and prices our fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters rendered for Biafra during the 3 years war of genocide against Biafra by the British-backed Nigeria,” the statement said.
A Peaceful Act of Civil Disobedience
MASSOB emphasized that the sit-at-home is part of the group’s long-standing tradition of non-violent civil disobedience.
“The call for stay-at-home has been our annual and recalling measure for effective civil disobedience ceremonial exercise,” the group said.
MASSOB reminded Biafrans that the sit-at-home remains a cornerstone of the Biafran self-determination struggle, helping to project the legitimacy of the movement’s non-violent approach.
Voluntary Participation Encouraged
The organization stressed that participation is voluntary and not by force, affirming that it is a gesture of love and respect for the Biafran homeland.
“As a non-violent organization, Biafrans shall not be compelled, pressurized or forced to observe the stay-at-home exercise,” the statement noted.
MASSOB further assured that no one will be molested, compelled, or intimidated into compliance, and that all members of the group would remain indoors in quiet observance of the day.
“There shall be no physical demonstration, street march, procession, or any other public functions in Biafra land on May 30,” the group added.
Heavy Security Presence Expected
The group also acknowledged that there will likely be a heavy deployment of security forces across major cities in the South-East during the celebration, including the Nigerian Army, Mobile Police, DSS operatives, and Civil Defence Corps.
MASSOB dismissed the anticipated show of force as an act of fear and intimidation by the Nigerian state.
“They are all signs of jittery, fear, and cowardice,” the group said. “No amount of security intimidation, mesmerization, killings, detention, oppression, incarceration, etc., will ever stop the willpower of an indigenous people for self-determination.”
MASSOB concluded by stating that the spirit of Biafra cannot be extinguished by force.
