The arrest of Simon Ekpa brings relief to the Chief of Igbos – Ohanaeze

A chieftain of the apex Igbo socio-cultural body, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, has described the arrest of self-proclaimed Biafra Prime Minister Simon Ekpa in Finland as a big relief for the Igbos and the South East.

Isiguzoro said Ekpa’s arrest by the Päijät-Hame District Court in Finland was a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle to ensure peace and security in the southeast.

According to him, the arrest of Ekpa for public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent marks a significant turning point.

“The Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, wishes to express its deep relief and collective gratitude to the authorities following the recent arrest of Simon Njoku Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the Biafra Movement.

“His reckless intentions to proclaim a sovereign Biafran nation on December 2, 2024 pose a significant threat to the peace and stability that the people of southeastern Nigeria have long yearned for.”

“His actions, always aimed at fomenting unrest and unrest, are at odds with the progressive aspirations of an Igbo nation that has decisively moved away from the harrowing conflict of the past.”

Isiguzoro lamented that the South East had suffered hardship due to the Ekpa’s campaign of terror and violence.

“For over three years, the South East has endured significant misery due to Mr Ekpa’s relentless campaign of fear, terror and violence.

*His illegal enforcement of the Sit-At-Home order on Monday had disastrous economic consequences, resulting in a staggering loss of over 22 trillion naira in investment opportunities.

“Our communities have suffered the psychological trauma and socio-economic impact of these actions, which were supported by an unfortunate band of armed individuals under his command.

“As we reflect on the impact of his arrest, it is paramount to note that the silence that prevailed across the 95 local government areas in the South East following the news speaks volumes about the collective relief felt by our people.

“We have long been concerned about the possibility of renewed conflict and the prospect of Ekpa’s plans being realized was a matter of great concern.

“The Igbos have not forgotten the harrowing consequences of the Biafran War and are absolutely unprepared to return to the path of violence.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly believes that individuals like Simon Ekpa are incapable of leading our sophisticated and dynamic nation into an unprovoked conflict.

“His actions and ideologies represent a radical departure from the desires of the Igbo people who seek a restructured and peaceful Nigeria, rather than a return to strife and division.”

“Our elders, leaders and civil society stakeholders have consistently advocated for dialogue and peace rather than violence and rebellion. Simon Ekpa’s ideas are in stark contrast to these values ​​and his efforts have met with widespread disapproval from our respected elders and esteemed leaders.

“The arrest of Simon Ekpa is undoubtedly a milestone in averting the specter of a second Biafran war. Ohanaeze Ndigbo is resolutely committed to prosperity and peace for all Nigerians and remains committed to the ideals of unity and cooperation among the tribes of our great nation.

“In solidarity and with hope for a better future, we express our sincere thanks to all those involved who have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of our people.”