CDS: Simon Ekpa’s arrest reduced tension in south-east

Christopher Musa, the chief of defence staff (CDS), says Simon Ekpa’s arrest has reduced tensions in the south-east.

Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested two months ago by law enforcement in Finland.

The Nigerian-Finnish citizen was subsequently sent to prison for “spreading terrorist propaganda on social media”.

Finnish police said Ekpa’s activities and social media rhetoric may have fanned the flames of violence in the south-east of Nigeria.

The CDS spoke in Abuja on Tuesday when he appeared before the house of representatives committee on defence to defend the 2025 budget proposal.

Musa said the army’s recent operations in the region have started to yield results after Ekpa’s incarceration.

“With the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the tension in the south-east has greatly reduced,” the CDS said.

“Also with operation Udoka, we’re picking up most of the leadership of these groups, taking them out, and making sure that the place is peaceful.

“The sit-at-home on Mondays is gradually diminishing. We’re also working with the political leaders there because we understand, like I always say, that we need local support because without it, it’s difficult.

“You know, the terrain is very challenging, so we need to work together. It is improving.”

Musa said the army would continue deploying non-kinetic approaches to tackle the region’s security challenges, noting that intelligence played a role in maintaining peace during the yuletide.

The CDS urged citizens to play their part in keeping the country safe.