The Headquarters of Operation UDO KA has described as illegal and provocative a directive allegedly issued by the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), instructing churches across the South-East and parts of the South-South to hold memorial services in honour of victims of the Nigerian Civil War.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Operation UDO KA warned that the directive was aimed at disrupting the prevailing peace and stability in the region.
The military expressed sympathy for families who lost loved ones during the civil war and acknowledged the sacrifices made in preserving Nigeria’s unity. It noted that the memories of those who paid the ultimate price remain an important part of the nation’s history.
However, the Army stressed that there are already legally recognised national events established by the Federal Government for honouring fallen heroes. These include Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Nigerian Army Day Celebration, and Nigeria’s Independence Day, which it said provide lawful platforms for remembrance, reflection, and national unity.
According to the statement, “true honour lies in unity, peace and lawful remembrance, not in illegal directives by some irredentists aimed at sowing division and causing panic in the region.”
Operation UDO KA further described MASSOB’s directive as unlawful and urged churches, clerics, youths and residents to disregard it. The military alleged that sympathisers of MASSOB and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) were behind the move, which it claimed was intended to create confusion and destabilise the South-East.
The security outfit reassured members of the public that they should continue with their normal religious activities, businesses and daily routines without fear of intimidation.
It also warned that any individual or group found disrupting public peace or religious activities would face the full weight of the law.
Operation UDO KA reiterated that the Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, remain committed to protecting lives and property while ensuring lasting peace and security across the South-East region.
