The Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has criticized the Nigerian Army over its reported stance on activities marking this year’s Biafra Day remembrance, urging the military to focus its attention on armed groups causing insecurity in parts of the country.
In a statement issued on Friday by the leader of MASSOB, Comrade Uchenna Madu, the group reacted to reports that the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army in Enugu opposed plans by churches in the South-East to hold memorial services and prayers for victims of the Nigerian Civil War.
MASSOB described the reported position of the military as provocative and unacceptable. The group argued that the Army should be more concerned about tackling criminal and terrorist activities in different parts of Nigeria rather than opposing religious gatherings organized to remember those who lost their lives during the 1967-1970 conflict.
According to the group, the military has failed to show the same level of concern toward the activities of bandits and other violent groups operating in parts of Northern and Western Nigeria. It maintained that churches planning to hold memorial prayers should not be discouraged by any statement from the Army.
MASSOB called on religious leaders and worshippers across the South-East to proceed with planned services and prayers, insisting that the observances are peaceful and aimed at remembering victims of the civil war.
The organization also stated that efforts by security agencies to intimidate or pressure the movement would not force it to abandon its commitment to non-violent agitation. It maintained that its campaign for self-determination has always been conducted without the use of weapons and in line with internationally accepted principles.
The group said it has remained committed to peaceful methods despite what it described as the killing of some of its members by security operatives over the years. It added that it has never responded with violence because of its belief in non-violent struggle.
MASSOB further announced that activities marking the 59th anniversary of the declaration of Biafra would include a sit-at-home observance. It also disclosed that churches across the South-East would hold special prayer sessions on Sunday, May 31, for Biafra and for those who died during the civil war.
The group maintained that its activities remain peaceful and lawful, while urging supporters to participate in the commemorative events in an orderly manner.
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