The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed that Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed prime minister of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will be extradited to Nigeria to face charges of terrorism brought against him.
Director of Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, disclosed this on Thursday night, adding that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Chris Musa, is pleased with Ekpa’s arrest in Finland, hoping it will pave the way for his extradition to Nigeria to face justice.
Gusau wrote: “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.”
Ekpa’s arrest is connected to allegations of using social media platforms to spread separatist propaganda linked to IPOB, promoting violence against civilians and authorities in southeastern Nigeria.
The Finland district court in Lahti ordered his remand on probable cause for public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent in Nigeria, with offences dating back to August 23, 2021.
Additionally, Ekpa has been investigated for alleged financial crimes, including collecting funds through questionable means.
Four other suspects, accused of financing terrorism, are believed to have committed crimes in August 2022 in Lahti.
The Nigerian Government has been seeking Ekpa’s extradition, and the Defence Headquarters’ announcement makes it a good development in the case.
Ekpa’s extradition is expected to facilitate his trial in Nigeria, addressing concerns about his alleged role in promoting violence and separatism.
