Rita Odafe
A group of Southeast professionals has urged the Finnish government and the European Union (EU) to take swift action to bring back Simon Ekpa, an alleged fugitive, back to Nigeria.
The professionals emphasized that Ekpa’s actions have been detrimental to the reputation and respect of Nigeria and that he should face the consequences in Nigeria.
Furthermore, they criticized the enforcement of the sit-at-home order by suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their security arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), noting the negative impact it has had on the region’s socio-economic well-being.
The Coalition of South East Professionals Network in Nigeria and Diaspora (CSEPNND) called for an end to the violence and disruption caused by these groups, highlighting the loss of innocent lives and damage to Igbo businesses.
The professionals strongly condemned the recent killing of soldiers in Aba, Abia State, and urged authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
In a joint statement, signed by key figures including Prof. O.C. Madumere, Mazi Uche Igbokwe, and Dr. Chioma Maduka, the group commended Operation Udo Ka’s efforts and called on all South Easterners to support the military in maintaining peace in the region.
They expressed their disapproval of the sit-at-home order and the attacks on security forces, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation in addressing security challenges in the South East.
The professionals urged political leaders in the region to provide more support to the military and security agencies in restoring peace and stability.
They called for the establishment of internal security mechanisms at the state level to augment the efforts of the military and other security operatives.
