The Nigerian Senate has vehemently condemned the ongoing sit-at-home exercise enforced by pro-Biafran agitators in the South-East geopolitical zone. The exercise, initially introduced by the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB), has faced significant criticism and disruptions since the arrest of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, in 2021. The Senate took issue with the current enforcement of the sit-at-home exercise by Simon Ekpa, another disciple of the secessionist leader, who has now become a focal point of concern.
Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafra advocate based in Finland, recently came under scrutiny after being arrested and subsequently released by Finnish authorities following an extensive interrogation. While IPOB had initially initiated the exercise as a means of protesting Nnamdi Kanu's extraordinary rendition from Kenya, the situation took an alarming turn when Simon Ekpa and his armed militia allegedly took control of the campaign.
During a crucial plenary session, the red chamber, presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, called upon the Nigerian government to engage with Finnish authorities in pursuit of Simon Ekpa's extradition for prosecution. The Senate expressed concerns over his alleged involvement in the enforcement of the sit-at-home exercise and its detrimental impact on the socio-economic activities in the South-East region.
In addition to seeking Simon Ekpa's extradition, the Senate also passed a resolution to summon the Minister of Foreign Affairs (when appointed) and other relevant stakeholders for a thorough investigation into the matter. The aim is to uncover any potential sponsors behind the continuous sit-at-home campaign, holding all accountable for the disruptions it has caused in the region.
The Senate's move against Simon Ekpa and its condemnation of the sit-at-home exercise reflect the growing concerns within the Nigerian government regarding the stability and unity of the country. The South-East region has been adversely affected by the campaign, leading to economic setbacks and disruptions in daily life for citizens.
As the situation unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely to see how the government and the international community respond to the extradition request and how they handle the broader implications of the pro-Biafran agitators' activities in the country
