Millions of students in Nigeria’s Southeast may face disruptions to their ongoing WAEC exams following a total lockdown declared by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for May 30, 2025.
The group said the lockdown is in observance of Biafra Heroes Memorial Day, an annual event honoring those who died during the Nigerian civil war and the ongoing struggle for Biafran independence.
IPOB Declares May 30 a Public Holiday
In a statement issued by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the group announced:
”May 30th is a sacred day for all Biafrans. It’s a public holiday and a total lockdown in Biafra Land from 6 AM to 6 PM.”
He added that the day is reserved for reflection, remembrance, and storytelling about the Biafran war (1967–1970) and the “ongoing victimization” of the Igbo people in Nigeria.
- No Movement, No Exams, No Business
- According to IPOB’s directive, the lockdown will include:
- No WAEC exams
- No schools or church services
- No public gatherings
- No transportation—by road, air, or sea
Only emergency services like doctors, nurses, journalists, firefighters, and ambulance drivers are exempt.
The group said it had notified WAEC authorities and governors in the Southeast and South South zones to allow for a rescheduling of exams.
Why the Lockdown?
IPOB says the decision stems from past incidents where security forces allegedly opened fire on peaceful mourners during previous remembrance events. The group urged all residents to stay indoors for their own safety.
“If you decide to ignore this lockdown order, whatever happens to you, please hold no one responsible,” the statement warned.
Global Solidarity Planned
While public protests are banned within Nigeria, IPOB says Biafrans in the diaspora will organize town hall meetings and peaceful demonstrations abroad to demand the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and honor Biafran heroes.
The group paid tribute to prominent figures such as the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Gen. Philip Effiong, and others who led the Biafran movement.
