The Nigerian Army says it is satisfied with the arrest and
detention of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the proscribed
Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Ekpa was arrested by Finland law enforcement on Thursday. He
was subsequently detained by the Päijät-Häme District court on “probable cause
for incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent”.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said Ekpa
allegedly used his leadership position in the separatist group to promote
actions that have led to violence against civilians and authorities in
south-eastern Nigeria.
The NBI said the efforts are believed to have been coordinated
from Finland, including through Ekpa’s social media channels.
Authorities in Nigeria have long clamoured for Ekpa’s arrest
and extradition for fanning embers of chaos, especially on social media.
In a statement, Tukur Gusau, director of defence
information, said Christopher Musa, the chief of defence staff (CDS), was
thrilled with Ekpa’s arrest.
“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,” Gusau said.
Edward Buba, director of defence media operations, noted
that the CDS was part of the voices that had called for Ekpa’s arrest following
his “deep involvement in fueling terrorism” in the south-east.
“We are delighted about his arrest and glad that the
international community is partnering with Nigeria in our fight against
terrorism,” Buba added.
Ekpa has previously been implicated in criminal activities.
In 2023, Finnish police detained him on suspicion of fundraising fraud but
released him later the same evening.
He has also repeatedly called for the boycott of elections
in Nigeria and has publicly justified the use of violence.
Ekpa, who is also a Finnish citizen, has represented
Finland’s National Coalition Party (NCP) in local roles. He currently serves on
Lahti’s public transport committee.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on Areatatafo.com.ng to reach thousands of our daily users
