The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has said it believes that the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). is a step towards his extradition to Nigeria.
This followed his arrest by Finland authorities on Thursday for alleged terrorist activities.
Ekpa 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.
In a statement, Director of Defence Information Tukur Gusau, 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.
Also, Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, 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.
In 2023, Finnish police detained Ekpa on suspicion of fundraising fraud but released him the same evening.
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