The arrest of Simon Ekpa has generated various reactions online, with many Nigerians demanding his extradition to Nigeria.
Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government is set to apply for the extradition of Simon Ekpa, the leader of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the paramilitary organization of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian origin, was arrested in Finland on charges related to terrorism.
According to the Director of Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Chris Musa, is pleased with Ekpa’s arrest and hopes it will lead to his extradition to Nigeria to face justice. Gusau stated that Ekpa should be held accountable for his actions, which have led to violence and instability in the South-East region of Nigeria.
The Finnish authorities have accused Ekpa of inciting crimes with terrorist intent, while four other suspects face charges of financing terrorism. Ekpa was arrested in February 2023 for his inciting comments and sit-at-home orders to the people of the South-East.
The IPOB has denied any relationship with Ekpa, stating that they have publicly asked people and relevant authorities to stop linking them with the embattled Biafran agitator. IPOB spokesman, Emma Powerful, maintained that Ekpa has no connection with the IPOB or its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The arrest of Ekpa has generated various reactions online, with many Nigerians demanding his extradition to Nigeria. Former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode applauded the development, describing Ekpa as a “feral psychopath” and a “hate-filled sociopath.”
Since its inception in December 2020, the ESN has been linked to a series of violent attacks in the South-East, targeting Nigerian Army personnel, police, and other security forces.
The Federal Government has labelled the ESN a terrorist organisation and launched several military operations to dismantle it.
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