Senator Orji Kalu has come forward with serious claims, alleging that Simon Ekpa, a leading figure in the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), repeatedly threatened him for not supporting the Biafra cause.
Kalu, who represents Abia North in the Senate, shared the details of these threats during an interview on Arise Television on Monday. The senator revealed that Ekpa, known for his controversial role in pushing for Biafra’s independence, called him multiple times to intimidate him.
According to Kalu, Ekpa’s threats centered on the senator’s refusal to back the Biafran agitation. “Simon Ekpa was calling and threatening me that I don’t support Biafra, but I left him to his conscience,” Kalu explained.
The lawmaker made it clear that he did not give in to the threats. Despite the pressure, he chose to ignore Ekpa’s calls and focused on more pressing matters.
“I am very strong-willed when it comes to security, and I can do anything to safeguard the lives and property of the people I rule,” Kalu added, underscoring his commitment to protecting his constituents.
Kalu’s comments also touched on broader issues of crime and governance in the South-East region. He called on South-East governors to take a strong stand against crime in their states.
“You must be a strong leader to condemn crime, and I eradicated crime. No governor should tolerate any type of crime in his state; it is not allowed,” Kalu declared.
These statements come in the wake of significant developments involving Simon Ekpa. Reports surfaced that Finnish authorities arrested Ekpa on November 21, 2024, for his involvement in spreading terrorist propaganda online.
Ekpa, a prominent figure in the Biafra separatist movement, was apprehended by Finnish police and later sent to prison by the district court of Päijät-Häme. The court cited Ekpa’s online activities, which allegedly promoted violence and unrest in connection with the Biafra cause.
Following the arrest, Finnish authorities set a court date for May 2025, where formal charges will be filed against Ekpa. His detention marks a major turning point in his controversial role as an advocate for Biafra’s independence.
While Ekpa’s legal issues unfold in Finland, Kalu’s own political journey continues in Nigeria. The senator’s recent statements have brought attention to the persistent tension between political figures like himself and agitators like Ekpa, who view Nigeria’s unity as incompatible with the Biafran cause.
Kalu’s comments add to the ongoing national conversation about separatist movements and the balance between security and freedom of speech. The senator, who has long been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, has made it clear that he will not be intimidated by threats, whether from Ekpa or any other individuals seeking to force their agenda.
In his view, leadership requires standing firm in the face of challenges, even when those challenges come in the form of external threats.
Despite the threat, Kalu remains focused on his duties as a lawmaker, continuing to advocate for strong governance and the safety of his constituents. His stance reflects a broader desire for a peaceful and united Nigeria, where issues like the Biafran agitation are addressed through dialogue, not intimidation.
As Ekpa faces legal battles in Finland, Kalu’s remarks serve as a reminder of the complex political dynamics at play in Nigeria. The tension between regional separatism and national unity remains a deeply divisive issue, but Kalu’s refusal to back down may inspire other political leaders to stand strong in the face of pressure.
The senator’s comments also shed light on the importance of security in combating crime and maintaining order. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that his people are protected from all forms of criminal activity.
Kalu’s emphasis on proactive governance reflects the kind of leadership he believes is necessary to confront challenges head-on. According to the senator, true leadership requires not only condemning crime but also taking decisive action to eliminate it.
The ongoing arrest and prosecution of Simon Ekpa are sure to keep the spotlight on Biafran separatism and the role of agitators in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. However, with leaders like Orji Kalu, who remain steadfast in their convictions, it is clear that the battle for Nigeria’s unity is far from over.
