Abaribe views this development as a critical turning point, signaling hope for peace in an area that has been struggling with frequent episodes of violence linked to separatist activities.
In a detailed statement, Abaribe noted that the Igbo people have always condemned the actions of Ekpa, emphasizing that his methods and his call for secession have been in direct conflict with the values upheld by the Ndigbo community.
According to Abaribe, Ekpa’s violent approach and disruptive tactics do not represent the legitimate aspirations of the Igbo people or the broader Biafra movement, which has, historically, sought peaceful avenues for dialogue and self-determination.
In an interview with Channels Television on Monday, Abaribe stated that Ekpa’s arrest serves as a much-needed deterrent to those who have been involved in the violent insurgencies in the South-East. He pointed out that Ekpa and his followers have been using the name of the Biafra movement to mask their criminal activities, which have included violent attacks and attacks on security forces. This, according to Abaribe, has only led to further chaos and disruption within the region.
“The arrest of Simon Ekpa is a welcome development. It is an opportunity to send a strong message to all those who have been misled by his violent rhetoric. Ekpa claimed to be just a content creator, not a serious leader. His activities have been far from peaceful and have caused significant harm to the South-East,” Abaribe explained. He further stressed that Ekpa’s arrest could signal the beginning of an end to the violent campaigns, urging the government and security forces to continue their efforts to clamp down on violent agitators who use the Biafra cause as a smokescreen for their personal agendas.
Abaribe also highlighted that the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which has been at the center of the struggle for the South-East’s self-determination, has consistently advocated for non-violence. He pointed out that while IPOB seeks a peaceful referendum on the future of the region, individuals like Ekpa have distorted this noble cause by resorting to force and criminal activities. “What was supposed to be a peaceful push for a referendum has been hijacked by criminals who use IPOB as a cover for mayhem. They are not interested in dialogue or progress—they are interested in sowing division and violence,” he said.
The senator made it clear that while the desire for self-determination remains legitimate for many people in the South-East, it must be pursued through lawful and peaceful means, rather than through violent acts and criminal behavior. He argued that the actions of people like Ekpa only serve to undermine the true message of the Biafra movement and tarnish the reputation of those who genuinely seek justice and peace.
Abaribe’s comments came at a time when security challenges continue to plague the South-East, with numerous incidents of violence, including attacks on security forces and government property, being attributed to separatist elements. The arrest of Simon Ekpa is seen by many as a step in the right direction, signaling that the government is taking firm action against those inciting violence under the guise of seeking Biafran independence.
In his concluding remarks, Abaribe expressed optimism that the arrest would not only curb the violence but also bring a sense of relief to the people of the South-East, who have suffered from the unrest. He called on the government to continue its efforts to restore peace, stability, and development to the region, while also addressing the legitimate concerns of the people in a way that promotes unity rather than division. He further urged the Nigerian government to open a broader dialogue with the people of the South-East to ensure that the path to peace is built on understanding and mutual respect, rather than on the politics of violence.
As the investigation into Ekpa’s activities continues, Abaribe remains hopeful that this incident will mark a turning point for the South-East. He stressed that while the desire for change is understandable, it must always be channeled in a manner that fosters peace and national cohesion.