Chief of Defence Staff Expresses Optimism Over Simon Ekpa’s Extradition to Nigeria
By DAYO ADESULU
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has expressed confidence in the likelihood of Finland extraditing Simon Ekpa, a factional leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to Nigeria. Ekpa, arrested in Finland on Thursday, is accused of orchestrating violence and unrest in Nigeria’s South-East region.
General Musa, through a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, described the arrest as a major step towards accountability. He stated, “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.”
Allegations of Terrorism and Social Media Incitement
Simon Ekpa is alleged to have used social media platforms to incite violence and coordinate attacks in Nigeria while operating from Finland. According to Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, Ekpa has been instrumental in “fuelling terrorism in South-East Nigeria.”
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation confirmed Ekpa’s arrest, noting that he, alongside two other suspects residing in Helsinki, faces charges of financing terrorism. Detective Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen, leading the investigation, stated, “The man has carried out this activity, among other things, on his social media channels.”
International Cooperation and Legal Proceedings
Finnish authorities highlighted the importance of international collaboration in their ongoing investigation. Hearings for the suspects, including Ekpa, are scheduled to proceed this week.
This is not Ekpa’s first encounter with Finnish law enforcement. In 2023, he was briefly detained over allegations of fundraising fraud. He has also gained notoriety for his separatist rhetoric, including a widely circulated declaration in 2023 stating, “No elections will be held! Nigerian elections will not be allowed in Biafran territory.”
Steps Towards Accountability
Ekpa’s arrest is seen as a critical move in addressing the ongoing unrest in Nigeria’s South-East. General Musa reiterated the military’s commitment to ensuring that individuals who threaten national security, regardless of their location, are brought to justice.
As the investigation unfolds, Nigeria hopes for swift legal action and the extradition of Ekpa to face charges in his home country.
