The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has expressed immense relief and gratitude following the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-styled leader of the Biafra movement.

His apprehension by Finland’s Päijät-Hame District Court marks a critical moment in efforts to secure peace and stability in Nigeria’s Southeast region.

Ekpa’s arrest on charges of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent has been hailed as a turning point, particularly as he had planned to declare a Sovereign Biafra Nation on 2nd December 2024.

His actions, described by Ohanaeze as reckless and divisive, posed a grave threat to the region’s peace and the unity of Nigeria.

A statement by Ohanaeze Ndigbo said for over three years, Southeastern Nigeria 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 ₦22 trillion reportedly forfeited.

The organisation said in the statement issued by Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said communities bore the brunt of fear and economic stagnation, while an armed faction loyal to him 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.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo noted the widespread relief following Ekpa’s arrest, evidenced by the calm that has settled across the region’s 95 local government areas.

The organisation reaffirmed its stance against violence and divisive ideologies, emphasising that Simon Ekpa’s actions did not represent the aspirations of the Igbo people and that instead, they stood for peace, unity, and the restructuring of Nigeria through dialogue, not rebellion.

Ohanaeze also criticised the Finnish government for its delayed response to Ekpa’s incitement, urging authorities to take firm action as legal proceedings progress, saying that with December 2nd looming, they called for vigilance to ensure the region remains peaceful and secure.

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.

Ohanaeze reiterated its commitment to fostering peace, prosperity, and unity among Nigerians, extending gratitude to all who contributed to safeguarding the Southeast.