Simon Ekpa and Nnamdi Kanu Weren’t the Originators of the Agitation; IPOB Rose After MASSOB Declined—Oladeinde Ariyo

Public Affairs Analyst Oladeinde Ariyo has shed light on the evolving separatist movements in Southeast Nigeria, tracing their roots back to decades of unresolved grievances. ...CONTINUE READING>>>

In an interview with TVC News, Ariyo provided historical insights into the agitation, highlighting the key players and events that have shaped the movement.

Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) by Ralph Uwazuruike marked the beginning of the modern separatist movement in Southeast Nigeria.

However, after Uwazuruike faced repeated arrests and detentions, MASSOB’s influence began to wane, creating a vacuum that would eventually be filled by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

“The two of them didn’t start the agitation if you ask me,” Ariyo noted, referring to Simon Ekpa and Nnamdi Kanu, two prominent figures associated with the IPOB. “From the blues came IPOB, and then it’s been one headache today, tomorrow,” he explained.

Ariyo criticized the government’s handling of the separatist movements, suggesting that authorities have been reluctant to confront the root causes of the unrest. “For the government, since that time till today, if they don’t want to admit, they’ll be begging the issue,” he said.

The rise of IPOB has introduced new layers of complexity to the agitation, including the establishment of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and the emergence of “unknown gunmen.” These developments have further escalated violence in the region, with Ariyo noting that “a lot of unwholesome things” have unfolded as a result of the government’s inaction.

As the situation in Southeast Nigeria continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will address the underlying issues driving the separatist movements. One thing is clear, however: the legacy of unresolved grievances in the region will not be easily forgotten.