The Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government In-Exile, Simon Ekpa, has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, for paying tribute to former Nigerian Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, on his 90th birthday anniversary.
Ekpa made this statement over the weekend on his official X handle, reacting to Tinubu and Obi’s birthday messages to Gowon on Saturday.
In his tribute, Tinubu commended the former military leader for his service to Nigeria, highlighting Gowon’s contributions and dedication to the country. Similarly, Obi stated, “Your life of service to our great nation, Nigeria, stands as one of sacrifice, leadership, and unity.”
However, Ekpa, a prominent pro-Biafra agitator, called the tributes a “disgrace.” He reminded that many Biafrans lost their lives due to Gowon’s actions during the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970.
Ekpa argued that if Nigeria were truly prosperous, Gowon would have remained in the country instead of living in the United Kingdom.
“Tinubu is a disgrace for his tribute to Gowon. Gowon killed Biafrans for one Nigeria and at 90 is not proudly staying in Nigeria but ran to the UK. While the people he killed are returning at 70, he is running to London. Our happiness is that we banned him from entering Biafraland and he chickened out. He should come if he is a man,” Ekpa stated.
Responding to Obi’s tribute, Ekpa added, “Nigeria will happen to you and it will not be long. Just as you are proudly confessing it, those following you will also talk like they usually talk when Nigeria happens to others.”
It is worth noting that Obi faced backlash from some of his supporters after his tribute to Gowon.
