Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has stated that his administration does not intend to engage in unnecessary confrontation with those promoting the May 30 sit-at-home in honour of those killed during the Nigerian civil war.

The governor made this known in a statement on Thursday through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, affirming the people’s right to mourn their dead.

The Governor disclosed that the government is working with schools to ensure that students currently sitting for the West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams are not adversely affected.
He said,
“The government is in touch with all the affected schools to ensure that WAEC exams are not disrupted.

“We are working on managing the situation without unnecessary confrontation with those advocating for the sit-at-home to honor their deceased loved ones. They have every right to mourn, considering the history of the war. This is not a matter of politicizing.

“The war was a tragic period, and remembering the genocidal events is an emotional experience.

“We do not wish to confront those observing this moment of remembrance. Instead, we are handling the situation with wisdom and diplomacy, engaging with all involved parties.

“While we are taking certain measures that we prefer to keep private, our main goal is to ensure students can take their exams peacefully.

“Rest assured, we are implementing measures to maintain peace in Abia State.”

Recall that the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) had on Tuesday reiterated that 30th May is crucial and respected for Igbo people and residents of the South-East to honour those who died during the Civil War between 6 July 1967 and 15 January 1970.

According to statement by its media and publicity secretary, Emma Powerful, on Tuesday, IPOB said, “wish to remind every person resident in Biafra territory that 30th May 2024 sit-at-home in commemoration of Biafra Heroes Day is sacrosanct and we obliged everyone to abide to this order, its only one day.

“As long as Biafra Land is concerned, IPOB remains a very important state actor on the issues concerning Biafra. The remembrance of all those who fought for Biafra freedom and sovereignty remains imperative, and no government or security agency has any authority to harass any innocent person during that event. We are urging all state governors in Biafra Land to ensure the safety of persons and properties on that day.”a