Ohanaeze Ndigbo has hailed the arrest of Simon Ekpa by Finnish authorities, describing it as a turning point for peace in the southeast region.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation expressed relief and gratitude following the arrest of the self-styled leader of the Biafra movement.
A statement by Ohanaeze Ndigbo said for over three years, the southeast endured turmoil under Ekpa’s influence, saying his enforcement of the controversial Monday Sit-At-Home order resulted in severe economic losses, with investments worth over N22 trillion lost.
The organisation said in the statement issued by its Secretary General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said communities bore the brunt of fear and economic stagnation, while an armed faction loyal to Ekpa spread terror across the region.
The body said the Igbo people, still haunted by the painful memories of the Biafra War, had grown increasingly apprehensive about the potential for renewed conflict.
The group expressed hope that Ekpa’s arrest would deter future attempts to incite unrest, describing the development as a significant step toward preventing a second Biafra War.
