There was palpable fear around the Bakassi Peninsula following a complete shutdown of network in the region amid threats coming from members of the Biafra Nations League (BNL), banning foreign vessels from entering through the Peninsula from May 30, the Biafra Remembrance Day. The network went off from 7pm on May 29 to 8pm the next day, the development threw residents of the region into panic as everyone, including local travellers, fishermen deserted the water for fear of being harmed. Network was completely cut off in East Atabong, in Idabato subdivision and Archibong in Isangele subdivision of the region under the Cameroon sovereignty. However, there was less interruption around Ikang area as the action could not stop the BNL from hoisting its flags in some villages in Atabong area.

Confirming the development in a statement jointly signed by the National Leader of BNL, Princewill Richard; Deputy National Leader of BNL and Head of Operations, BBS Media, Ebuta Takon; and the Chief of General Staff, Linus Essien, BNL said that foreign vessels remained banned even after May 30.

Meanwhile, the group carried out similar activities in Ejagham-speaking area of Akamkpa, Cross River State, a border town with Cameroon where some Ambazonians were said to be part of the gathering which saw some of them narrating their ordeals in French and English.

•BNL faithful brandishing Biafra flags in Bakassi Peninsula as part of the 2021 Biafra Day observance