The Nigerian government is considering seeking the extradition of Simon Ekpa, the self-styled leader of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), which operates as the militant faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Gists9ja reports that Ekpa, who resides in Finland, faces serious terrorism-related charges and is among the 97 individuals placed on the Nigerian Defence Headquarters’ wanted list as of March 2024.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, confirmed on Thursday that the Nigerian government intends to pursue Ekpa’s return to Nigeria for prosecution. Ekpa, a vocal supporter of IPOB’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is accused of inciting violence and orchestrating terror activities in Nigeria’s South-East region, which includes attacks on civilians and security personnel.
International Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Ekpa’s arrest by Finnish authorities marks a significant development in the global fight against terrorism. Finland’s Central Criminal Police charged him with crimes including public incitement to commit acts of terrorism and financing terrorist activities. A Finnish court has ordered his detention, while investigations continue regarding his role in escalating tensions in Nigeria’s South-East.
According to Finnish police, Ekpa utilized social media platforms to mobilize followers, inciting violent acts that have destabilized the region. Four associates of Ekpa were also arrested for allegedly funding these violent actions. Finnish officials have highlighted the international nature of the case, underscoring the collaborative efforts to tackle terrorism across borders.
Lack of Presidential Briefing
While Ekpa’s arrest has captured international attention, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu have not yet been briefed on the development. Presidential spokesperson Daniel Bwala explained that the Nigerian embassy in Finland would need to relay the information through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before the president and other relevant authorities are updated.
Reactions from Nigeria’s Military Leadership
Nigeria’s military leadership has expressed strong support for the arrest, with Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Chris Musa welcoming the action and advocating for Ekpa’s swift extradition to face justice in Nigeria. Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, praised the global cooperation in combating terrorism, noting that Ekpa’s arrest represents a major victory in the fight against extremism in Nigeria’s South-East.
IPOB Denounces Ekpa’s Actions
Despite Ekpa’s association with the IPOB cause, the organization has distanced itself from his activities, stressing that he is not part of the official leadership. IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful reiterated that the group’s primary focus remains the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader detained by Nigerian authorities. Powerful insisted that Ekpa’s violent actions and rhetoric are incompatible with IPOB’s goals, emphasizing that the group has never endorsed his so-called “Autopilot” faction.
In addition, IPOB’s Political Wing, represented by Nwachukwu Emereonye, called for Ekpa’s extradition, condemning his role in the violence that has plagued the South-East. Emereonye stated that Ekpa’s actions had led to significant loss of life and property damage, urging that he face the legal consequences of his actions in Nigeria.
Public and Political Responses
Ekpa’s arrest has sparked a variety of reactions from Nigerians across the political spectrum. Former aviation minister Femi Fani-Kayode expressed strong approval of the arrest, labeling Ekpa as a “psychopath” whose violent rhetoric had resulted in the deaths of many innocent Nigerians. Similarly, former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad suggested that after serving any legal consequences in Finland, Ekpa should be handed over to Nigeria to face prosecution.
Violence in the South-East
Ekpa’s connection to the enforcement of violent sit-at-home orders in the South-East has been a major source of instability in the region. These orders, which have paralyzed economic activities and led to widespread violence, have been attributed to Ekpa and his faction, though IPOB has repeatedly denied involvement. Recent violent acts linked to the ESN include attacks on security personnel and the killings of vigilantes and civilians in Anambra State. IPOB has accused Ekpa of hijacking the Biafran struggle for personal gain, further distancing itself from his actions.
In conclusion, the unfolding situation surrounding Simon Ekpa underscores the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces in its efforts to combat terrorism and maintain peace in the South-East. The international nature of the case, combined with the political and legal dimensions, continues to garner attention both in Nigeria and abroad.
