The Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE) has undergone a significant leadership change, formally removing the detained Simon Ekpa from his position and appointing Ogechukwu Nkere as its new substantive Prime Minister.
Formal Removal and Unanimous Appointment
In a statement released on Friday, the exiled government confirmed that its cabinet had unanimously elected Ogechukwu Nkere to serve as Prime Minister. This decision was made on January 14, 2026, effectively formalising a transition that began over a year earlier. The statement clarified that Nkere was succeeding Simon Ekpa Njoku, who was "relieved of his position by the cabinet."
Nkere had been serving as the Acting Prime Minister since December 2024. This interim appointment came shortly after Simon Ekpa was arrested by Finnish authorities. Ekpa, a controversial figure who declared himself the Prime Minister of the BRGIE, was taken into custody in late 2024 following extended investigations by Finnish security agencies.
Ekpa's Arrest, Conviction, and Impact on Security
The arrest of Simon Ekpa was connected to serious allegations, including incitement, terror-related propaganda, and using social media to promote violence linked to the Biafra separatist cause. Operating primarily from Finland, his activities, especially alleged directives concerning sit-at-home orders, had drawn international attention and were blamed for worsening insecurity in Nigeria's South-East.
After months in detention, a Finnish court convicted and sentenced Ekpa on September 1, 2025. His incarceration left him unable to lead the group actively, paving the way for Nkere's initial acting role and now his permanent appointment.
Nigerian security officials have linked Ekpa's arrest to a noticeable improvement in peace. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), recently stated that the last Christmas period saw significant security gains in the South-East. Speaking on Arise Television's Prime Time, Musa highlighted that the region enjoyed a more peaceful celebration, underscoring the importance of law enforcement against those inciting unrest.
Profile of the New Prime Minister: Ogechukwu Nkere
Before his elevation to the top role, Ogechukwu Nkere held several strategic positions within the BRGIE. He previously served as the group's Finance Minister and was its long-time representative in Washington, DC.
The BRGIE statement detailed Nkere's extensive lobbying efforts in the United States. It claimed he engaged with key figures in the U.S. political establishment, including meetings with officials ranging from Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA).
Furthermore, Nkere reportedly signed a lobbying contract with Washington & Madison, LLC, an international services firm founded by Elias Gerasoulis, described as a longtime BRGIE lobbyist. The group asserts that this engagement has successfully attracted international attention to their cause.
This leadership reshuffle marks a pivotal moment for the pro-Biafra movement as it seeks to reorganise and advance its agenda following the legal troubles of its former, more militant-facing leader.
