In a dramatic turn of events, Simon Ekpa, a prominent Biafran agitator, has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for their tributes to former Nigerian Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, on his 90th birthday.
Ekpa made his comments over the weekend on his official X handle, responding to the tributes that Tinubu and Obi had posted to celebrate Gowon’s milestone.
President Tinubu praised Gowon for his contributions to Nigeria during his tenure as military head of state.
In his tribute, Tinubu stated that Gowon “did a lot for Nigeria” and served the nation with dedication.
Meanwhile, Obi highlighted Gowon’s life of service, calling it “one of sacrifice, leadership, and unity.”
These comments were met with mixed reactions, particularly from those who have suffered as a result of Gowon’s policies during the Nigerian Civil War.
Ekpa did not hold back in his criticism of both leaders, describing their tributes as a “disgrace.”
He pointed out that many Biafrans lost their lives during Gowon’s regime, particularly during the brutal Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970.
“Many Biafrans died due to Gowon’s pursuit of Nigeria during that war,” Ekpa stated in his message.
He also questioned why Gowon chose to live in the United Kingdom instead of returning to Nigeria if the country was truly a good place.
Ekpa’s remarks directed at Obi were particularly pointed.
He warned the former presidential candidate, saying, “Nigeria will happen to you and it will not be long.”
This statement suggests that Ekpa believes Obi will face similar challenges and criticisms that others have experienced in Nigeria.
“Just as you are proudly confessing it, those following you will also talk like they usually talk when Nigeria happens to others,” Ekpa added.
Obi Faces Backlash from Supporters
Obi’s tribute to Gowon has also drawn criticism from his own supporters.
Many felt that praising a figure associated with the Civil War, which resulted in widespread suffering for the Igbo people, was inappropriate.
This backlash highlights the deep divisions and historical wounds that still exist within Nigerian society regarding the Civil War and its aftermath.
The Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, lasted from 1967 to 1970 and resulted in the deaths of millions, predominantly from the southeastern region of Nigeria.
It was sparked by a series of political, ethnic, and economic tensions, particularly surrounding the demand for the independence of the southeastern region, known as Biafra.
Gowon, who served as head of state during the war, is viewed by some as a unifying figure who sought to preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
However, many Biafrans and their advocates see him as responsible for policies that led to significant loss of life and suffering during the conflict.
Simon Ekpa has emerged as a prominent figure in the ongoing Biafran agitation, advocating for the rights and independence of the Igbo people.
His strong stance against Nigerian leaders and their historical policies has resonated with many who feel marginalized in the current political landscape.
His comments regarding Tinubu and Obi reflect a broader sentiment among those who believe that the struggles of Biafrans during the Civil War have not been adequately acknowledged or addressed.
The exchange between Ekpa and the two leaders underscores the sensitive nature of Nigeria’s historical narrative and its impact on contemporary politics.
