Ohanaeze Ndigbo has renamed Biafra Remembrance Day to Igbo Heroes Day, urging a voluntary, peaceful celebration in honour of those who paid the ultimate price.
GUARDIAN NG
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, has officially renamed Biafra Remembrance Day, observed every May 30, as Igbo Heroes Day.
In a statement received by The Guardian in Abakaliki, Deputy National President Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro said, “This change is necessary to recognize and acknowledge the bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment of those who paid the ultimate price for our collective freedom.”
He explained that the new name offers a strategic shift, making it easier for Southeast political leaders—especially governors—to declare the day a public holiday.
“We implore our community to embrace a spirit of voluntary celebration rather than mandatory observance that disrupts educational, economic, social, and religious activities,” he added, noting that the ongoing WAEC exams must be protected.
Ohanaeze also called for an end to enforced sit-at-home orders and any violence that could provoke confrontation with security forces, urging peaceful remembrance that empowers the Igbo community.