The apex Igbo social organization, Ohaneze Ndigbo, has called on Igbo sons and daughters to embrace the spirit of voluntary celebration of Biafra day.
Biafra day celebration is observed every 30th day of May, but the days for 2025 West African examination council schedules fail into the celebration day which has now been christened “Igbo Heroes Day”.
In a statement by the Deputy President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, he recognized the importance of education but rather explained the need for Igbo’s to willingly identify with the day.
The statement reads, “The Apex Igbo Socio-cultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stands resolute in its commitment to honor the indomitable spirit and sacrifice of our fallen heroes who valiantly defended our identity during the Biafra conflict.
“In recognition of these sacrifices, May 30th—historically observed as Biafra Remembrance Day—will now be celebrated as Igbo Heroes Day. This designation acknowledges the bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment of those who paid the ultimate price for our collective freedom.
“However, in light of the ongoing West African Examinations Council (WAEC) assessments scheduled from April 28 to June 20, Ohanaeze Ndigbo regards the academic pursuits of our students as paramount. We implore our community to embrace a spirit of voluntary celebration rather than mandatory observance that disrupts educational, economic, social, and religious activities. Therefore, we recommend that the commemoration of Igbo Heroes Day take place in a manner that supports our students and fosters an environment conducive to their scholarly achievements.
“It is imperative to communicate that the celebration of our heroes should not be accompanied by the hindrance of academic activities. We call upon all Biafra agitators to exercise wisdom, refraining from actions that could be exploited by detractors aiming to foment discord.
“The recent history of violent incidents during past May 30th commemorations serves as a sobering reminder; these events have often served to mischaracterize our cause and depict us as aggressors.
“By renaming Biafra Remembrance Day to Igbo Heroes Day, we strategically shift the narrative, ensuring a safer environment that invites the consideration of Southeast political leaders, particularly our governors, to recognize this day as an official public holiday, akin to the recognition of June 12 as National Democracy Day by the Federal Government.
“We hereby advocate for a celebration that is voluntary in nature and call for the cancellation of any enforced sit-at-home directives or other actions that may adversely affect the legitimate activities of the Igbo populace. We appeal for a cessation of violence that may incite confrontation with law enforcement, recognizing that such actions only lead to further strife and retaliation against innocent civilians.
“In this pivotal moment, let us work together to honor our heroes while fostering a peaceful and progressive society. As we reflect on our past, let us also cast our gaze to the future, ensuring that the actions we take in remembrance empower rather than endanger our community.
Together, we can elevate the Igbo narrative, honoring our heroes with dignity and purpose”.