MASSOB criticizes military for objecting to Biafra commemoration ceremonies

The Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, has denounced the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu, for its disapproval of planned memorial prayers for victims of the Nigerian civil war, with the group's leader, Comrade Uchenna Madu, signing a statement that termed the Army's reaction "provocative" and "unjustified".

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MASSOB's planned activities are intended to pay tribute to the millions of Biafrans who lost their lives during the 1967–1970 civil war, with the group asserting that remembrance services and prayers should not be treated as criminal acts.

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The statement released by MASSOB expressed surprise at the Army's stance, questioning when memorial prayers for victims of war became perceived as "irresponsible or provocative".

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The pro-Biafra group argued that security agencies should focus on addressing violent crimes and banditry across the country, rather than targeting non-violent organisations like MASSOB.

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According to MASSOB, its core philosophy has always been rooted in non-violence and peaceful self-determination, with the group maintaining that it has never resorted to arms against the Nigerian state, despite alleged harassment and killings of its members over the years.

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MASSOB emphasized that its activities align with internationally recognised principles of self-determination, warning that attempts to intimidate its members would not drive the group to adopt violent means.

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The group reaffirmed its commitment to non-violence and peaceful advocacy, stating that "no amount of provocation will push us into armed struggle".

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The planned memorial prayers are linked to the 59th anniversary of the declaration of Biafra by the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, with MASSOB urging residents of the South-East to observe a sit-at-home in commemoration of the anniversary.

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MASSOB called on churches across the South-East region to dedicate Sunday, May 31, to prayers for Biafra and victims of the civil war, as part of the anniversary celebrations.