This violent enforcement follows IPOB's declaration of May 30 as a sit-at-home day across the South East, a day intended to honor the heroes and heroines who died during the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970. Emma Powerful, the spokesperson for the proscribed group, emphasized the significance of this day for Biafrans. 

“Annually, 30th of May is a solemn memorial day for Biafrans,” Powerful stated. “To honor our heroes and heroines, Biafrans are asked to observe this one-day sit-at-home in reverence to the spirits of our departed heroes who fought for us to be alive today. Every Biafran in Biafra territory is expected to sit at home on this day and reflect on the dangers of the forced unity called Nigeria that has taken millions of Biafran lives.”

IPOB directed all schools, government offices, private offices, banks, transport unions, market unions, and individuals to shut down operations from 6 AM to 6 PM on May 30, 2024. Residents were warned to stay indoors and avoid traveling on that day.

Daily Trust reports that the military men were attacked by gunmen using an SUV and a Sienna. A video of the incident shows the assailants shooting sporadically before setting the military van ablaze. A male voice in the video comments, “This army man is the only surviving person here. He was the only person that ran away.” Another voice asks for a motorcycle, highlighting the chaos during the attack.

The incident prompted widespread fear, leading to the closure of filling stations, banks, restaurants, and major supermarkets across the five states in the region. 

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, condemned the attack as “unwarranted, outrageous, unjust, cruel, and absolutely condemnable.” Representing Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, Kalu emphasized that the enterprising spirit of Aba people should not be suppressed by violence and that staying at home and shutting businesses is not in their best interest.