September 2, 2025 – The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, feels a moral obligation to express profound appreciation to the Federal Government of Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to addressing the security challenges in the Southeast. We commend the government for its landmark achievement, particularly the incarceration of Simon Njoku Ekpa in Finland, who received a six-year prison sentence for terrorism-related charges.

‎The Southeast region, along with the entire Igbo community, extends heartfelt gratitude to National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of State for Defence Dr. Bello Matawalle, and Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa for their relentless efforts in dismantling the reign of terror that has plagued our region. Their decisive actions have effectively reduced the pervasive influence of terrorism and insecurity in the Southeast. The subsequent end to the disruptive “sit-at-home” orders orchestrated by Ekpa marks a significant step toward stability and progress.

This development, highlighted by the Finnish government’s sentencing of Simon Ekpa, reaffirms the Igbo people’s strong opposition to armed struggle disguised as Biafra agitation. We unequivocally condemn terrorism in all its forms and reject any deviation from the principles of nonviolent self-determination. The Igbo nation stands united against violence, recognizing the need for peaceful resolution and constructive dialogue.

‎Ohanaeze Ndigbo declares the Southeast’s unwavering readiness to collaborate with Mallam Ribadu, Dr. Matawalle, and General Musa in a coordinated effort to permanently eradicate insecurity and terrorism within our region. We pledge our full support in pursuing peace and stability.

‎We convey this truth with utmost sincerity and respect to the Federal Government. We firmly believe that the time has come to embrace a “carrot and stick” approach, as championed by the late President Yar’Adua, by engaging in dialogue with repentant, nonviolent Biafra agitators. This essential step will address the underlying grievances that fuel unrest, foster a sense of belonging, and ultimately dismantle the root causes of existing agitations.
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‎Ohanaeze Ndigbo appeals to all Biafra agitators misled by Simon Ekpa into embracing armed struggle to lay down their arms and embrace peace. We understand that many of Ekpa’s followers are educated graduates and young entrepreneurs who were lured by false promises. This serves as a renewed call for all armed Biafra agitators to surrender their weapons, emerge from hiding, and cease the violence that has affected the Southeast. We assure them that the Igbo leadership will encourage the Federal Government to establish specialized rehabilitation and youth empowerment programs for repentant agitators, facilitating their reintegration into society.

‎Ekpa’s imprisonment marks a pivotal moment for the Southeast. The Igbo people are deeply grateful to Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and General Christopher Musa for ending Ekpa’s reign of terror. While we recognize that some Igbo political leaders, especially Southeast governors, may be hesitant to publicly express their joy, they privately share our appreciation for the Federal Government’s significant achievements in addressing the Southeast’s security challenges. The security of the Southeast is non-negotiable. We will not allow any individual or group to hold our region hostage.

‎Signed:
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‎Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro 
‎Deputy President General
‎Ohanaeze Ndigbo 
‎
‎Chief Thompson Ohia 
‎National Spokesman
‎Ohanaeze Ndigbo 
‎September 2, 2025