Southeast Now Safer Since Simon Ekpa’s Arrest, CDS Boasts

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has categorised the South East region as ‘safe’ since the arrest of pro-Biafra agitator, Simon Ekpa in Finland.

Fielding questions from members of the House Committee on Defence while defending the 2025 budget, Musa said the arrest of Ekpa by Finland authorities has reduced the level of insecurity and crime pepertuated by unknown gunmen.

According to the CDS, with the efforts of the troops of Operation Udoka, the Nigerian Military is gradually restoring peace and sanity to the region.

Ekpa was arrested by security operatives in Finland in November 2024 following his violent agitation on his various social media channels.

He has since been remanded in prison custody pending his assumption of his trial before a Finnish court this year, the authorities said.

However, addressing the lawmakers, the CDS said, “With the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the tension in the South-East has greatly reduced. Also with Operation Udoka, we’re picking up most of the leadership of these groups, taking them out and making sure that the place is peaceful.”

He also noted that the incessant sit-at-home imposed on residents of the region every Monday is gradually diminishing in some states in the Southeast.

His words, ““The sit-at-home on Mondays is gradually diminishing. We’re also working with the political leaders there because we understand, like I always say, that we need local support because,  without it, it’s difficult. You know, the terrain is very challenging, so we need to work together. It is improving.”