By Nnamdi Akpa, Abakaliki
Igbo sociocultural apex group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Thursday issued a statement renaming the Biafra Remembrance Day celebration, which is being observed every 30th May, to Igbo Heroes Day.
In a statement in which Guardian received a copy in Abakaliki, the Deputy National President Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro said that the change is very necessary because it will recognize and acknowledge the bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment of those who paid the ultimate price for our collective freedom.
He noted that renaming Biafra Remembrance Day to Igbo Heroes Day will 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.
Isiguzoro advocated for a celebration that is voluntary in nature and called for the cancellation of any enforced sit-at-home, imploring our communities to embrace a spirit of voluntary celebration rather than mandatory observance that disrupts educational, economic, social, and religious activities.
The statement read: “The Apex Igbo Sociocultural 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, and 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.
“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.
“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, and 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.”
