Stakeholders have called for the sentencing of Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of Biafra, while advocating for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, a prominent figure in the Biafra independence movement.
This dual demand comes amid escalating insecurity in the region, where violence has been rampant.
Simon Ekpa, who holds dual citizenship in Finland and Nigeria, was recently arrested in Finland along with four others.
The Finnish authorities have accused him of spreading terrorist propaganda on social media, inciting violence, and financing terrorism.
Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen of the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation stated, "The suspect has furthered his efforts from Finland, resulting in violence and other crimes in Southeast Nigeria."
The arrest has sparked varied reactions among Southeast indigenes. Some are calling for Ekpa to be sentenced in Finland, emphasizing that his actions have contributed significantly to the unrest in the region.
Osita Okechukwu, a former Director General of Voice of Nigeria, remarked, "His arrest was long overdue... because of him a lot of people have lost their lives in the Southeast."
Meanwhile, Eyinnaya Abaribe, Senator of Abia South, has highlighted the importance of releasing Nnamdi Kanu, suggesting that it would help distinguish genuine activists from those exploiting the Biafra cause for criminal activities.
He questioned, "How does murdering people, going around killing policemen, spreading mayhem, and burning police stations help you?"
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which initially initiated a sit-at-home order to pressure the Nigerian government for Kanu's release, has distanced itself from Ekpa, clarifying that he is not affiliated with their group.
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