The arrest of Simon Ekpa in Finland and the implementation of Operation Udoka have significantly reduced tension in Nigeria’s South-East. Learn how proactive measures and local collaboration are restoring peace. By LMSINT MEDIA The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has highlighted the significant reduction in tension in Nigeria’s South-East region following the arrest of Simon Ekpa in Finland. This development, combined with the Defence Headquarters’ Operation Udoka, is fostering peace and stability in the area. Operation Udoka and Restoring Peace Operation Udoka was specifically launched to combat banditry and address the “sit-at-home” protests that disrupted life in the South-East. General Musa revealed this progress during his presentation before the House of Representatives Committee on Defence to defend the 2025 budget. He stated, “With the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the tension has significantly reduced. Through Operation Udoka, we’ve identified and removed key figures contributing to the unrest, allowing normalcy to return to the region. The sit-at-home culture on Mondays is gradually fading.” The General also emphasized collaboration with local political and community leaders, noting that the challenging terrain in the region requires coordinated efforts for sustainable peace. Proactive Measures Yield Positive Results General Musa praised proactive intelligence and non-kinetic strategies for the peaceful holiday season in the South-East. He stated, “We worked ahead using intelligence to ensure peace, and the results are evident. By encouraging synergy across our operations and appealing for public ownership of security challenges, we’re seeing remarkable improvements.” Human intelligence has been instrumental, with citizens increasingly providing actionable information. This cooperation has bolstered security operations across Nigeria. Other Security Operations: Delta Safe and Beyond In addition to South-East interventions, General Musa highlighted the success of Operation Delta Safe, targeting oil theft and militancy in the South-South region. For the first time in years, Nigeria has achieved its OPEC oil production quota. The military aims to further increase daily oil production to 2.2 million barrels by working alongside stakeholders in the oil sector. Community Engagement and Non-Kinetic Solutions The Defence Headquarters has prioritized engaging with religious, cultural, and community leaders to build trust and cooperation. General Musa explained, “Our discussions with local leaders have significantly eased tensions. The best outcome is solving problems without firing a single shot. By balancing kinetic and non-kinetic measures, we’re achieving sustainable peace.” Tackling Border Challenges and Trafficking General Musa also discussed the military’s efforts to combat smuggling, human trafficking, and drug trade. He stated, “We’ve rescued numerous trafficked children and intercepted small arms and drugs. Collaboration with Customs, NDLEA, and other agencies ensures these cases are appropriately handled.” Welfare of Troops and the Need for Improved Infrastructure While commending recent salary increases for junior personnel, General Musa expressed concerns about the welfare of troops, including inadequate Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) and the need for better housing. “With over 25,000 recruits annually and fewer retirements, there’s an urgent need for new barracks and renovations to existing ones,” he said. Local Manufacturing of Weapons The Chief of Defence Staff stressed the importance of boosting local production of weapons. He cited the challenges of importing military equipment, exacerbated by the global demand stemming from conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war. “With the DICON bill signed by Mr. President, we’re encouraging local manufacturers to produce military equipment in Nigeria. This will reduce reliance on foreign imports and enhance our defense capabilities.” Conclusion: A Call for National Support General Musa reiterated the importance of peace for national development. He called on all Nigerians to support the armed forces and take ownership of security challenges. “Without peace, there can be no progress. By working together, we can achieve lasting stability across the nation,” he concluded. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South, has expressed his belief that Nigeria would be in a better state if Peter Obi, the Labour Party candidate, had emerged victorious in the 2023 presidential election. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Abaribe highlighted the flaws of the current administration and outlined how Obi’s leadership could have addressed these issues. Abaribe Criticizes Nepotism in Tinubu’s Administration Abaribe accused President Bola Tinubu’s government of perpetuating nepotism, citing the appointment of four ministers from Ogun State while many other states have only one. He argued that such favoritism was deepened under Tinubu, following a similar trend under former President Muhammadu Buhari. “If Peter Obi had won, you probably would have seen a better Nigeria than what we are seeing today. Number one, he would not be as nepotistic as this government. It’s not in him,” Abaribe stated. Revamping the South-East The senator urged the South-East region to focus on self-development rather than waiting for fairness from the central government. He stressed the need for the region to improve its livability, cohesion, and overall development, adding that the zone cannot continue relying on federal equity. “Apart from Obasanjo and Jonathan, no president has been fair to the South-East. It’s time for us to take charge of our own destiny,” Abaribe said. Simon Ekpa’s Arrest and South-East Violence Addressing the arrest of Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based pro-Biafra agitator, Abaribe described it as a positive development. He noted that Ekpa’s actions have fueled violence in the South-East, and his apprehension might discourage instigators at home. “The Igbo have always condemned the actions of people like Ekpa, who incite violence from foreign lands,” Abaribe remarked. Abaribe also called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), stating that many violent actors in the region misuse Kanu’s name to justify their actions. Conclusion Senator Abaribe’s statements underline the growing discontent with the current administration’s perceived favoritism and the need for self-reliance in the South-East. His remarks also shed light on the importance of addressing the root causes of violence in the region to foster peace and development. READ ALSO:
