The Nigerian Army has advised residents of the South East to shun a directive by the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) to observe church memorials for victims of the Nigerian Civil War, describing it as illegal and aimed at disrupting peace in the region.
The proscribed association had directed churches in the South-East to hold memorial services for Civil War victims and enforce a sit-at-home on 30 May.
However, in a statement, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Enugu, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, said the directive was not only illegal and provocative but must be disregarded by all, warning that any gathering or activity outside the framework of lawful national commemorations will not be tolerated.
According to the statement, “The Nigerian Army is aware that sympathisers of MASSOB and IPOB have resolved to issue this illegal order to create chaos. Clerics, innocent citizens and youths are therefore strongly advised to stay away from such plans, which are designed to destabilise the peace enjoyed in the entire South-East.”
It reassured residents, including churches, that they should go about their services and businesses without fear of intimidation, as any individual or group that attempts to disrupt public peace or religious activities will face the full weight of the law.
It explained that the Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, remain committed to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring peace across the South-East.
It added that the attention of the South-East Joint Task Force Operation Udo Ka had been drawn to the illegal directive.
According to the statement, “Headquarters Operation Udo Ka empathises deeply with families who lost loved ones during the Civil War and acknowledges the sacrifices made to keep Nigeria united.
“The memories of those who paid the ultimate price remain indelible in our national consciousness. However, it is important to emphasise that there are already established national occasions legally recognised by the Federal Government to honour our fallen heroes.
“These include the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, and Nigeria’s Independence Day. These solemn occasions provide lawful platforms for reflection, unity and remembrance.”
It pointed out that while the sacrifices of fallen heroes will not be forgotten, “true honour lies in unity, peace and lawful remembrance, not in illegal directives by some irredentists aimed at sowing division and causing panic in the region.”
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