The Enugu State Police Command on Wednesday arrested the leader of Biafra Zionists Federation (BZF), Barrister Benjamin Onwuka and 20 others for allegedly attempting to take over the State Government House.

Onwuka, the self-acclaimed President of Biafra reportedly stormed the Government House as early as 7 am with Biafra flags with his group, which had earlier vowed to be at the Government House on Wednesday, May 30 to declare Biafra Republic.

Reports say that upon their arrival at the Government House gate after marching from the Bissala Road axis, Onwuka and about 20 others were rounded up by security operatives made up of the DSS, anti-terrorism squad, mobile policemen and SARS while others fled.

Confirming the arrests, deputy leader of the group, Mazi Ambrose Ugwu said the South-East governors would be held responsible for whatever happened to their members.

“Peace loving Zionists were today treated like common criminals by the police, who were doing the bidding of South-East governors. They beat our members, including our commander, like criminals.

“What happened today is very condemnable. We hold South- East governors responsible. There is a collaboration among the five of them to crush Biafra agitators.

“But we are not going to be cowed. We are giving them ultimatum to release them immediately. Failure to do so, they will have the United States and others of our international allies to contend with,” Ugwu said.

Also confirming the development, the Enugu State Command of the Nigeria Police said he was arrested within the Enugu metropolis alongside his members based on intelligence  it receieved.

A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ebere Amaraizu said Onwuka has been standing trial in a court of competent jurisdiction over alleged murder, armed robbery and unlawful possession of firearms before he resurfaced on Wednesday.

“But he fell into the hands of the eagle- eyed security operatives of the command. The suspects are helping the operatives in their investigations,” the statement added.