The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has stated that the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in Finland, has significantly reduced tensions in the South-East.
General Musa made this disclosure on Tuesday while defending the 2025 budget before the House of Representatives Committee on Defence.
He explained that the ongoing Operation Udoka by the Nigerian military has been instrumental in stabilising the region.
“With the arrest of Simon Ekpa, it has greatly reduced the tension. Also with Operation Udoka, we’re also doing that, picking up most of the leadership that are there, taking them out, and then making sure that the place is peaceful,” he said.
General Musa further noted that the infamous Monday sit-at-home order in the region is gradually declining.
“The sit-at-home on Mondays is gradually diminishing. It is improving,” he added.
He emphasised the military’s commitment to non-kinetic measures in addressing the security situation, which has been yielding positive results.
“We had some intelligence and worked ahead to ensure that everywhere was kept peaceful. That has happened and we intend to do that and continue to do more. What we try to encourage is jointness, synergy in our operations,” he stated.
General Musa also urged Nigerians to support the armed forces in tackling security challenges.
“And like we always appeal for Nigerians to understand that they have to take ownership of their armed forces, they have to take ownership of the security challenges we are facing. It’s not the challenge for the armed forces alone or security agencies, it’s everybody’s responsibility to do,” he said.
The CDS reaffirmed the military’s dedication to ensuring long-term peace in the South-East through collaborative efforts with local leaders and communities.
“We’re also working with the political leaders there because we understand. Like I say always, we need to have the local support because without it, it’s difficult. You know, the terrain is very challenging, so we need to work together,” the Defence Chief said.
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