The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed its approval of the Finnish Police’s arrest of separatist leader Simon Ekpa, calling it a major step forward in the fight against terrorism......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
Maj-Gen Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, and Brig.-Gen Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, issued separate statements on Thursday, praising the action. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, also expressed his satisfaction with the arrest.
Ekpa, detained on Thursday in Finland along with four others, is suspected of terror-related offenses, including inciting violence and financing terrorism.
Maj-Gen Buba stated that Ekpa’s arrest reflects global cooperation in the fight against terrorism, adding, “The CDS has always called for the arrest of Simon Ekpa due to his significant involvement in fueling terrorism in South-East Nigeria.
“We are pleased with his arrest and grateful that the international community is supporting Nigeria’s anti-terrorism efforts.”
Brig.-Gen. Gusau emphasised that the CDS is hopeful that the arrest will lead to Ekpa’s eventual extradition to Nigeria for trial.
“The CDS is happy with his arrest in Finland, with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition to Nigeria so that he will face justice.”
In March 2024, the DHQ had declared Ekpa, leader of the factional group of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and 96 others wanted for their involvement in terrorism, extremism, and secessionist activities.
Ekpa, who resides in Finland, is believed to be a key figure behind the ongoing violence in the South-East region of Nigeria.
