The leading Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has commended Finnish authorities for arresting Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile.
In a statement issued on Thursday by Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of Ohanaeze, the group hailed the development as a significant step toward averting a second Biafra war and restoring peace in Nigeria’s Southeast region.
Ekpa’s arrest, which occurred on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent, was seen as a relief to communities in the region. For over three years, Ekpa’s enforcement of the controversial Monday sit-at-home order and incitements of violence reportedly resulted in widespread economic losses and social unrest. Ohanaeze estimates the losses to have exceeded ₦22 trillion in investments, adding that residents endured psychological and economic hardship under his directives.
Ohanaeze expressed confidence that Ekpa’s arrest would reduce tension in the region, particularly as his planned declaration of a sovereign Biafra nation on December 2, 2024, had raised fears of renewed conflict.
“The people of the Southeast can now heave a sigh of relief,” Isiguzoro said, emphasizing that Ekpa’s actions neither reflected the values nor the aspirations of the Igbo people. The group stated that the Igbos desire peace, unity, and development rather than a return to conflict.
Ohanaeze also called on Finnish authorities to pursue decisive legal action against Ekpa. They argued that his activities, cloaked under the guise of agitation, caused more harm than good.
“The silence across Southeast Nigeria following Ekpa’s arrest is a testament to the collective relief felt by the people,” the group noted, urging governments and stakeholders to remain vigilant against any attempts to destabilize the region.
Ohanaeze reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue, peace, and the pursuit of a restructured Nigeria that ensures equity and justice for all citizens. They expressed gratitude to stakeholders who contributed to ensuring the safety and stability of the Southeast, describing Ekpa’s arrest as a milestone in safeguarding the region’s future.
As the investigation unfolds, the group reiterated its call for unity and collaboration among Nigerians, stressing that violence and rebellion have no place in the aspirations of the Igbo people.
