May
30, 2000 will mark the 33rd anniversary of the declaration of the
Republic of Biafra. Barely two months later, a scorched-earth military
campaign was unleashed by the Nigerian military junta in Lagos to
subdue the nascent republic. Biafran war was one of the early manifestations
of the wicked postcolonial policies of Britain in Africa. With an
arsenal of modern weapons from Britain and ex-Soviet Union, the
junta in Lagos was able to effect a total blockade on Biafra for
the duration of the 30-month war. Millions of Biafrans were displaced
from their communities and were forced to eke out a living in refugee
camps with little help from outside. Starvation and hunger were
utilized by the policy makers in Lagos to subdue the Biafran will
to resist massive onslaughts that were orchestrated from land, sea
and air.
Survivors
of that mayhem, the generality of Ndiigbo, ex-Biafrans and well
wishers will organize various activities in all parts of the world
to remember their struggle to live free in their own nation. This
year’s activities will include church services, lectures and
cultural shows to remember and honor those who perished in Biafra
more than 30 years ago. The occasion shall also be used to pray
for peace in Nigeria and elsewhere where civil strife still bring
misery to millions.
The BMP Committee is determined to ensure that never again shall
our people be subjected to the indignities that are reminiscent
of the dark days of the Biafran war. There will be annual commemoration
of Biafran Independence worldwide. An anniversary committee shall
coordinate future events to ensure fuller participation in this
solemn annual event in Nigeria and the Diaspora.
