Defence Chief Calls for Simon Ekpa’s Extradition

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has expressed optimism that Simon Ekpa will be extradited to Nigeria to face justice following his recent arrest by Finnish authorities.

Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, was apprehended alongside four others on Thursday on allegations of terror-related activities, including incitement to violence and financing terrorism. The Finnish Central Criminal Police confirmed the arrests in a statement, highlighting that the other suspects are being investigated for allegedly funding terrorist operations.

According to the police, Ekpa is accused of orchestrating violent actions in Nigeria’s South-East region from Finland, using social media platforms to promote his agenda. Detective Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen, who leads the investigation, noted that Ekpa’s activities include public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.

Reacting to the arrest, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that General Musa is pleased with the development. He added that the CDS hopes Ekpa will be extradited to Nigeria to face trial.

In 2023, Ekpa was briefly detained over allegations of fundraising fraud and gained infamy for his separatist rhetoric. He called for the disruption of Nigerian elections, declaring in a viral video, “No elections will be held! Nigerian elections will not be allowed in Biafran territory.”

The Finnish Police emphasized that international cooperation has been instrumental in advancing the investigation. Hearings for the suspects have been scheduled.