In preparation for the Biafra Heroes Day declared by the separatist Indigenous People of Biafra across the South-East today, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnaghe Itam, deployed policemen across schools in the state on Wednesday.
Biafra Heroes Day serves as a solemn remembrance of the sacrifices made by those who fought and died defending the aspirations of Biafra. It is observed annually on May 30th, the day Biafra declared its independence, and it is marked by various activities including memorial services, marches, and gatherings to honor the memory of the fallen heroes.
In a similar vein, the Enugu State government has rebuffed the sit-at-home directive issued by IPOB to commemorate the day, asserting its readiness to maintain law and order by placing security agencies on high alert to deter any potential disruption.
IPOB had last week, in a statement by its spokesman, Emma Powerful, advised the West African Examination Council to shift WASSCE papers slated for May 30.
It similarly advised the Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Anambra State to shift its convocation slated for the same date.
The separatist group declared May 30 sit-at-home across the five South-East states, warning that there would be no business activities and no movements to honour Igbo people killed during the civil war of 1967-1970.
Our correspondent, who went around major markets and schools across Anambra State on Wednesday, observed heavy security presence with security vehicles as residents were also seen making last-minute purchases to avoid being stranded.
This was just as some of the students taking part in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination were seen relocating to areas near their examination centres, so as to avoid being stranded as IPOB has declared no movement across the region.
Customers also besieged banks and Automated Teller Machine points to withdraw cash in order to make purchases and get ready for the day.
A resident, who was seen making quick purchases at Eke Awka Market, in Awka, Grace Acho, who spoke to our correspondent, said, “My brother, 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.
