Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called for Voluntary celebration amid ongoing West Africa Examinations council WAEC.
Ohanaeze said it stands resolute in its commitment to honor the indomitable spirit and sacrifice of the fallen heroes who valiantly defended the identity during the Biafra conflict.
It stated that in recognition of these sacrifices, May 30th—historically observed as Biafra Remembrance Day—will now be celebrated as Igbo Heroes Day.
According to Ohanaeze, this designation acknowledges the bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment of those who paid the ultimate price for our collective freedom.
A statement issued on Thursday by the factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said in light of the ongoing WAEC assessments scheduled to June 20, Ohanaeze regards the academic pursuits of our students as paramount.
It read”;; 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.
