Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has expressed relief and optimism following the arrest of Simon Ekpa by Finnish police. The organization considers this development a major milestone in the pursuit of peace and reconciliation for the Southeast region.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo conveyed its reaction through a statement signed by its Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, describing the arrest as a crucial step toward healing and unity.
The group reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for a peaceful and prosperous Southeast within a united Nigeria, where every citizen’s voice is valued and respected.
In the statement, the apex Igbo sociocultural organization expressed unequivocal support for the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the Biafran independence movement.
The arrest, carried out by the District Court of Päijät-Häme in Finland, was highlighted as a monumental development expected to address long-standing insecurity issues in Southeastern Nigeria.
Ekpa faces serious charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. His plan to declare a sovereign Biafra Nation on December 2, 2024, was described as reckless and indicative of a disregard for its potential catastrophic consequences.
Ohanaeze denounced Ekpa’s ambitions as a threat to peace, warning that such actions could have reignited civil unrest and even led to another Biafran War, which the Igbo people firmly reject.
The organization condemned Ekpa’s enforcement of the Monday sit-at-home order, which has devastated the Southeast’s economy, with losses exceeding 22 trillion naira in investments.
Widespread relief has been reported across the Southeast’s 95 local government areas following the arrest. Communities anticipate that Ekpa’s detention will end his alleged role in sponsoring terrorism in the region.
Ohanaeze expressed disappointment over Finland’s delay in addressing Ekpa’s activities, which exploited the country’s freedoms to incite violence in Nigeria.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro reiterated Ohanaeze’s aspirations for a peaceful and restructured Nigeria. The organization urged Finnish authorities and the international community to prevent future disruptions like Ekpa’s actions.
Ohanaeze emphasized its unwavering commitment to peace, urging collaboration among stakeholders to ensure a harmonious Southeast. The statement concluded with a call for unity and progress, free from violence and division.
