Anambra State, Nigeria – In anticipation of Biafra Heroes Day, declared by the separatist Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) across the South-East, the Anambra State Police Commissioner, Nnaghe Itam, has deployed officers to schools and key locations throughout the state. This move aims to maintain order and ensure safety amid the group’s sit-at-home directive.
Similarly, the Enugu State government has rejected IPOB’s sit-at-home order, emphasizing that security agencies are on high alert to prevent any disruption of public peace.
IPOB, through its spokesman Emma Powerful, recently urged the West African Examination Council (WAEC) to reschedule WASSCE exams planned for May 30. The group also advised Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Anambra State to postpone its convocation slated for the same date.
Declaring May 30 a sit-at-home day across the South-East, IPOB warned that no business activities or movements should take place to honor those who died during the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970.
Our correspondent observed a heavy security presence at major markets and schools across Anambra State on Wednesday. Security vehicles were visible as residents made last-minute purchases to prepare for the shutdown.
Students participating in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination were seen relocating closer to their exam centers to avoid being stranded. Banks and ATM points were crowded with customers withdrawing cash to stock up on necessities.
Grace Acho, a resident seen shopping at Eke Awka Market in Awka, shared her concerns: “When I heard that markets would not open tomorrow, I took permission from the office to rush here to buy some foodstuffs and get ready for tomorrow.”
Authorities remain vigilant as the region braces for the observance of Biafra Heroes Day.
