The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to initiate the extradition process for Simon Ekpa, the Finland-based leader of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), accused of inciting violence and terrorism in the South-East. Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, disclosed this development on Thursday, emphasizing the need for Ekpa to face justice in Nigeria. READ MORE

Ekpa, a self-proclaimed disciple of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested earlier this week in Finland by the country’s Central Criminal Police. He faces allegations of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. Four other suspects were detained for allegedly financing his activities.

The Finnish District Court of Päijät-Häme has ordered Ekpa’s detention pending further investigations, highlighting his suspected role in promoting violence in Nigeria’s South-East via social media platforms.

Government, Military, and Online Calls for Extradition

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chris Musa, expressed satisfaction with Ekpa’s arrest, describing it as a positive step toward accountability. “This arrest represents international collaboration in fighting terrorism. We hope to see him extradited soon to face justice,” said Gusau in a statement.

Nigerians have also taken to social media, demanding Ekpa’s repatriation. Former aviation minister Femi Fani-Kayode labeled him a “religious bigot” and “enemy of humanity,” accusing him of orchestrating violence under the guise of Biafran agitation.

Similarly, Bashir Ahmad, ex-media aide to former President Muhammadu Buhari, called for Ekpa to face treason charges in Nigeria after serving any potential sentence in Finland.

IPOB’s Disavowal of Ekpa

IPOB, however, has distanced itself from Ekpa, categorically denying any ties to him or his faction, known as Autopilot. Emma Powerful, IPOB’s spokesperson, reiterated that their primary focus is the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who has been detained in Nigeria since 2021 on terrorism and treason charges.

“Ekpa has no relationship with IPOB or ESN. We have repeatedly stated this. His arrest does not concern us, and we demand the unconditional release of our leader,” said Powerful.

Background of Allegations Against Ekpa

Simon Ekpa, who describes himself as the “Prime Minister” of a self-proclaimed Biafra government-in-exile, has been accused of issuing sit-at-home orders that paralyzed economic activity in the South-East. Violent enforcement of these orders reportedly led to deaths, destruction of property, and widespread fear in the region.

The ESN, under Ekpa’s leadership, has been linked to attacks on security forces, arson, and the disruption of public services. Formed in 2020, the group initially aimed to counter the activities of armed herdsmen but has since been implicated in escalating regional unrest.

International Collaboration

Finnish authorities confirmed that the arrests were part of a broader international investigation into terrorism financing and incitement. Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen noted, “The suspect’s activities on social media have incited violence in Nigeria, leading to civilian and security personnel casualties.”

The case highlights growing international efforts to combat transnational terrorism, with Nigerian authorities applauding Finland’s cooperation.

Community and Political Reactions

While many Nigerians celebrated Ekpa’s arrest, some, including Igbo socio-cultural group Ohanaeze Ndigbo, prioritized Nnamdi Kanu’s release over Ekpa’s prosecution.

Chief Dubem Silas of Ohanaeze remarked, “We condemn all forms of lawlessness but urge the government to focus on addressing the unjust detention of Nnamdi Kanu.”

The arrest underscores the complex dynamics surrounding the Biafran agitation, raising questions about the intersection of local grievances, international law, and global security efforts.