The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Sunday backed the enlistment of self-acclaimed Biafra agitator, Simon Ekpa and others on a terror watchlist by the military.
Ohanaeze said Ekpa’s refusal to toll the path of former Niger Delta militants like Asari Dokubo, Ateke Tom, Tompolo and Yoruba activists like Gani Adams and Sunday Igboho who defended their land without resorting to internal violence is a matter of concern.
No fewer than 97 persons have been declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters following the deteriorating security situation across the nation.
The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, had declared Ekpa alongside 96 others wanted for terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.
DHQ placed Ekpa alongside one notorious killer known as Gentle also, militant and bandit leaders on the watchlist.
Reacting, the factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, distanced Ohanaeze from violence and criminality in the South-East.
In a statement he issued, Isiguzoro affirmed that the Igbo leadership’s unwavering commitment to advocating for nonviolent means of pursuing self-determination in accordance with international standards.
According to Isiguzoro: “We echo the sentiments expressed by the detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, emphasizing that criminal acts cannot go unpunished. Criminal elements portraying themselves as Biafra agitators have tarnished the genuine struggle for personal gain, leading to violence and economic disruption in the southeast region.
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“The Finland-based self-proclaimed Biafra agitator, Simon Ekpa, has caused immense harm with his apparent joy in the suffering of others, inciting hate and stirring unrest. We question whether Ekpa’s actions serve the interests of external adversaries or are driven by selfish motives.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo has consistently urged all Biafra agitators to refrain from resorting to armed struggles and violence, emphasizing the need for peaceful methods. We have warned those seeking to exploit the Biafra cause for profit of the inevitable consequences their actions will bring.
“The refusal of individuals like Simon Ekpa to follow the path of former Niger Delta militants/ warlords like Asari Dokubo, Ateke Tom and Government Tompolo and Yoruba activists like Gani Adams and Sunday Igboho who defended their land without resorting to internal violence is a matter of concern.
The organisation stated that the decision by the Defense Headquarters to labelled Simon Ekpa and others as terrorists serves as a signal for them to address their issues through legal channels.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo distances itself from violence and urges all involved to shun such activities. Creating a peaceful environment is essential for constructive dialogue, including efforts to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu. Engaging in violent acts only impedes the resolution of key issues affecting our region.”, the statement added.
