The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has revealed plans to extradite Simon Ekpa from Finland to face charges in Nigeria.
This development follows Ekpa’s arrest in Finland on allegations of public incitement with terrorist intent linked to the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, confirmed that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, welcomed Ekpa’s arrest in Finland and viewed it as a step towards ensuring justice.
Gusau stated, “The CDS is happy with his arrest in Finland, with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition.”
Authorities accused Ekpa of using social media platforms to promote separatist propaganda that has allegedly fueled violence in southeastern Nigeria since 2021.
Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen of the Central Criminal Police revealed that Ekpa’s actions from Finland have led to violence against civilians and authorities in southeastern Nigeria.
Hiltunen stated, “The man has carried out this activity, among other things, on his social media channels.”
In Finland, Ekpa has been under investigation for a range of offences, including financial crimes involving questionable fundraising methods.
Earlier arrests of other suspects tied to the case revealed international funding networks allegedly supporting terrorism.
Beyond his IPOB affiliations, Ekpa is also known as a local politician in Finland, associated with the National Coalition Party.
Despite his political engagements, his advocacy for election boycotts and Biafra’s independence has drawn international scrutiny.
The Defence Headquarters expressed optimism about Ekpa’s extradition, viewing it as a step toward accountability for his alleged actions.
