CurrentReport Blog Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South in the National Assembly, has described the arrest of separatist agitator Simon Ekpa in Finland as a welcome development.
In an interview with Channels TV, the lawmaker expressed hope that the arrest would deter individuals inciting violence in Nigeria’s southeast region. Abaribe accused Ekpa and his supporters of exploiting the Biafra agitation to perpetrate crimes in the area, leading to widespread unrest.
Abaribe on Simon Ekpa’s Influence
Abaribe criticized Simon Ekpa for allegedly encouraging violence under the guise of supporting the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He emphasized that Ekpa’s actions contradict IPOB’s stated goal of pursuing a non-violent referendum for self-determination.
“The arrest of Simon Ekpa is very welcome because this will show all those instigated by him at home that he is not a serious person but merely a content creator,” Abaribe said.
He further noted that Ekpa’s activities have distorted the values of the Igbo people, stating, “We have always said that his activities in the Southeast are totally wrong and not what Ndigbo stands for.”
Southeast Unrest and Violence
The Southeast region has faced heightened insecurity in recent years, with frequent attacks on government facilities, businesses, and citizens. While IPOB maintains it seeks peaceful means to achieve its objectives, security agencies have linked violent activities in the region to criminal groups allegedly operating under its banner.
Abaribe called on the public to reject violence and support efforts to restore peace in the region.
Broader Implications
The arrest of Simon Ekpa, a controversial figure in the Biafra movement, marks a significant moment in efforts to address insecurity in the Southeast. Authorities and stakeholders are urging individuals involved in violent activities to abandon such actions and pursue peaceful dialogue.
