THE Nigerian Defence Headquarters has commended Finnish authorities for the arrest of separatist leader Simon Ekpa, describing it as a significant breakthrough in the fight against terrorism.
In separate statements, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, and Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, highlighted the arrest as a crucial step in addressing security challenges.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, expressed satisfaction with Ekpa’s arrest, hoping it would give room for his extradition to Nigeria to face justice.
“The CDS is pleased with his arrest in Finland and hopes it will lead to his extradition to Nigeria for prosecution,” Gusau stated today.
Buba echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the arrest demonstrates international cooperation in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
“The CDS has consistently called for Simon Ekpa’s apprehension due to his significant role in fueling terrorism in southeastern Nigeria,” he said.
“We are encouraged by this development and the global partnership in combating terrorism.”
Simon Ekpa was declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters on March 23 for inciting violence in southeastern Nigeria, alongside 96 other suspects.
However, today, Finnish authorities detained Ekpa and four others on suspicion of terror-related activities, including incitement to violence and financing terrorism.
A district court in Lahti subsequently ordered Ekpa’s remand on charges of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent, linked to his activities with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which seeks the secession of southeastern Nigeria.
The court revealed that the allegations against Ekpa date back to August 23, 2021.
Finnish authorities have also previously investigated him for alleged financial crimes, including questionable fundraising practices.
