Every May 30th, we take a moment to pause and reflect. Not just to mourn but to remember, honour, and reflect on the sacrifices of the heroe...
Every May 30th, we take a moment to pause and reflect. Not just to mourn but to remember, honour, and reflect on the sacrifices of the heroes and heroines who stood to defend the Biafra territory during the genocide in the southeast of Nigeria. On May 30th of every year, the hearts of millions unite in silent reverence for the brave souls of Biafran Fathers, Mothers, Sons, Daughters, Soldiers and Civilians who made the ultimate sacrifice during one of the darkest times in African history.
The significance of May 30th goes beyond simple remembrance; it serves as a powerful reminder of the historical injustices faced by the Biafran people and reinforces our calls for recognition of our rights and aspirations for autonomy. Following the Nkpor massacre on May 29th and 30th, 2016, Biafrans in Biafraland observe a sit-at-home day to silently reflect on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of Biafran freedom. We hold candlelight vigils and memorial services to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, creating a space for collective mourning and remembrance.
In addition to these memorial services, Biafrans in the diaspora organize marches and protests to remind their host countries and the world that all we seek is a referendum to determine our future. These events, which take place on this significant day, ensure that the stories of resilience and sacrifice continue to resonate in the hearts of many, fostering a legacy of hope for future generations.
From 1967 to 1970, over six million lives were lost, some to bullets, many more to hunger, disease, and the cruel silence that followed. Children wept themselves to sleep in the arms of their starving mothers. Courageous young men left home and never returned. Entire villages vanished from the map—but they will never fade from our memories.
They didn't perish because they were guilty of a crime. They died because they dared to dream of Freedom, Dignity, and a homeland where they could live without fear, where their voices truly mattered. The Biafran genocide may have ended on the battlefield. Still, the pain, the scars, and the injustice remain deeply etched in our souls. So, every May 30th, we adore mourning attires. We light candles. We shed tears. But we also stand tall because their sacrifices were not in vain.
We will never forget:
The mothers who, with unwavering love, boiled tree bark to feed their children.
The young boys who were thrust into the role of soldiers overnight.
The artists, scholars, and leaders whose voices were silenced far too soon.
The innocent souls laid to rest in shallow graves scattered across the East.
We will make sure the world never forgets.
We will teach our children about these events not with bitterness but with Truth, Honor, and Hope.
Let's continue to push for Justice, Equity, and the Right to be treated with Dignity in our homeland.
To the fallen heroes of Biafra, your names will always be remembered.
You did not die in vain.
We carry your legacy in our voices, our culture, and our relentless fight for a sovereign State of Biafra.
Rest in peace our Heroes and Heroines.
Congratulations to Biafrans all over the world for surviving.
We remember and will always remember.
Written by
Orjiakor Ebere
Edited by
Oby M
For Enugu State Media Team
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