The Nigerian Army has expressed its satisfaction following the arrest and detention of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by Finnish authorities on Thursday.
Ekpa, who has long been implicated in inciting violence through his leadership of the separatist group, was arrested by Finland’s law enforcement and detained by the Päijät-Häme District Court on charges of incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) revealed that Ekpa allegedly used his position within IPOB to promote actions that led to violent conflicts in southeastern Nigeria.
His coordination of these activities, which included online campaigns via social media, is believed to have fueled the unrest.
In response to the arrest, Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, highlighted the Nigerian military’s approval, noting that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, was particularly pleased with the development.
“We are hopeful that this will pave the way for his extradition to Nigeria, where he will face justice,” Gusau said in a statement.
The Nigerian Army has long sought Ekpa’s arrest, with officials repeatedly accusing him of instigating terrorism and violent acts through his online activities, including calls for election boycotts and the endorsement of violent protests.
The arrest is seen as a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and violence fueled by separatist ideologies.
Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism, expressing optimism that Finland’s involvement would strengthen global efforts to hold Ekpa accountable.
Ekpa, a Finnish citizen, has previously been involved in controversies, including a 2023 detention by Finnish police on suspicion of fraud related to fundraising activities.
Despite his criminal connections, he also serves in local political roles, including his position on Lahti’s public transport committee as a member of Finland’s National Coalition Party.
The arrest of Ekpa marks a notable achievement in the fight against separatist-driven violence, with Nigerian authorities continuing to push for his extradition.