Simon Ekpa Held Accountable: Southeast Insists Freedom For Kanu Is The Path To Peace

Simon Ekpa Held Accountable: Southeast Insists Freedom For Kanu Is The Path To Peace

The arrest of Simon Ekpa, leader of the self-proclaimed “Autopilot” faction of IPOB, has sparked widespread reactions in the Southeast. Many residents expressed relief…READ MORE…

viewing his capture as a step towards reducing insecurity in the region. However, they emphasized that peace will only be fully restored if the Federal Government releases Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of IPOB.

Simon Ekpa’s Controversial Role

Ekpa’s group, accused of hijacking IPOB’s original peaceful agenda, has been linked to violence, including killings, kidnappings, and property destruction across the Southeast. Residents allege that his provocative social media campaigns, including sit-at-home orders and calls for election boycotts, have caused immense suffering in the region. His recent arrest in Finland for alleged terrorism-related offenses was met with widespread jubilation, as many believe it marks a turning point in curbing the violence.

Ebonyi Residents Welcome Ekpa’s Arrest

In Ebonyi State, residents applauded Ekpa’s arrest, calling for his extradition to Nigeria to face justice. Elias Nwibo, a businessman, urged Southeast stakeholders to seize this opportunity to foster peace, stating, “Ekpa’s arrest will drive his followers into retreat, offering a chance to restore security in the zone.”

Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

Prominent figures, including Most Rev. Biereonwu Livinus Onuagha, Methodist Archbishop of Okigwe, argued that Simon Ekpa’s arrest alone is insufficient to address the root causes of insecurity in the Southeast. He stressed that the Federal Government’s refusal to release Nnamdi Kanu, despite court rulings in his favor, has exacerbated tensions. Archbishop Onuagha stated, “Freeing Nnamdi Kanu is essential for lasting peace. Ignoring this demand perpetuates the crisis.”

Stakeholders Urge Dialogue and Reconciliation

Community leaders and residents advocate for a comprehensive approach to resolving the Southeast crisis. Suggestions include convening a security summit to address underlying grievances and fostering collaboration among Southeast governors and stakeholders. A vulcanizer from Imo State, Emeka Nwanosike, remarked, “Ekpa’s arrest is a step forward, but peace will only come when Kanu is released and leaders work together.”

Divided Opinions on Impact of Ekpa’s Arrest

While some believe Ekpa’s detention will significantly reduce violence, others caution against overestimating its impact. Traditional rulers, youth leaders, and civic groups consistently underscore the need to release Nnamdi Kanu as the primary catalyst for peace. Chief Pius Okoye of the Igboezue International Association remarked, “The Federal Government must stop celebrating Ekpa’s arrest and focus on the real solution: releasing Kanu.”

The Path Forward

Many agree that addressing the insecurity in the Southeast requires a multifaceted approach: holding Simon Ekpa accountable, releasing Nnamdi Kanu, and fostering dialogue among all stakeholders. The prevailing sentiment is clear: without resolving these issues, the Southeast’s peace and prosperity remain uncertain.

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