Amid its growing influence in the south-east, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has barred the Nigerian flag in the region.
The group’s spokesman Emma Powerful declared in a statement on Saturday that the ban takes effect immediately.
The group also declared October 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day anniversary, as sit-at-home day.
“IPOB has declared 1st of October 2021 total shutdown in Biafra land as a sign of our rejection of the evil construct called Nigeria and there shall be no movement in Biafra land on this day,” the statement read.
“Also, IPOB has declared from today 25th September 2021 that all Nigerian flag mounted anywhere in Biafra land must be brought down, Banks exceptional. IPOB leadership will communicate to banks directly and give them reason they must peacefully bring down Nigeria flag in their banking premises before we do it ourselves in our own way.”
The group added, “In line with the Memorandum of Understanding and alliance between Ambazonia and Biafra nations, we wish to ask Biafrans to support and celebrate Ambazonia Independence Anniversary on October 1st 2021.
“It is, therefore, the delight of the Directorate of State, of our great movement, IPOB, that we inform Biafrans all over the world of this upcoming Independence day celebration of our great ally and neighbour, the Ambazonian people billed for 1st of October 2021.”
Addressing world leaders gathered at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly, Emma Powerful said in the statement that the “sufferings of the two persecuted nations of Biafra and Ambazonia” should be discussed.
“Our people have suffered enough in the hands of our oppressors who are in bed with terrorists but derive pleasure in crushing peaceful agitators instead of addressing our genuine concerns,” he added.
