Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, has announced the rebranding of the annual May 30th Biafra Remembrance Day to "Igbo Heroes Day" while advocating for voluntary celebrations that will not disrupt ongoing West African Examination Council (WAEC) examinations.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the organization emphasized its commitment to honoring fallen heroes who defended Igbo identity during the Biafra conflict, while ensuring that academic activities are not hindered.

"We implore our community to embrace a spirit of voluntary celebration rather than mandatory observance that disrupts educational, economic, social, and religious activities," the statement read.

Ohanaeze specifically highlighted concerns about the timing of the commemoration, noting that WAEC examinations are scheduled to continue until June 20th. The organization stated that students' academic pursuits should be considered paramount during this period.

Strategic Rebranding for Recognition

According to the statement, the renaming from "Biafra Remembrance Day" to "Igbo Heroes Day" represents a strategic shift in narrative. This change aims to create a safer environment that could potentially encourage Southeast political leaders and governors to recognize the day as an official public holiday, similar to how June 12 is recognized as National Democracy Day by the Federal Government.

"By renaming Biafra Remembrance Day to Igbo Heroes Day, we strategically shift the narrative, ensuring a safer environment that invites the consideration of Southeast political leaders, particularly our governors, to recognize this day as an official public holiday," the statement explained.

Call for Peaceful Commemoration

Ohanaeze called for the cancellation of any enforced sit-at-home directives or activities that might adversely affect the legitimate activities of the Igbo population. The organization referenced past violent incidents during May 30th commemorations, describing them as events that have often mischaracterized the cause and depicted Igbos as aggressors.

"We appeal for a cessation of violence that may incite confrontation with law enforcement, recognizing that such actions only lead to further strife and retaliation against innocent civilians," the statement continued.

The organization urged all Biafra agitators to exercise wisdom and refrain from actions that could be exploited by detractors aiming to foment discord.

In concluding its statement, Ohanaeze called on the Igbo community to work together in honoring their heroes while fostering a peaceful and progressive society, emphasizing that actions taken in remembrance should empower rather than endanger the community.