Enugu Govt Accuses Simon Ekpa of Fraud and Murder, Promises More Evidence for Prosecution

The Enugu State Government has expressed gratitude to the Republic of Finland for the arrest of Simon Ekpa, a prominent Biafra agitator. Ekpa, who claims to be the self-proclaimed prime minister of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), faces charges related to public incitement and terrorism in Nigeria.

On Thursday, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters confirmed plans to extradite Ekpa, following his detention by Finnish authorities. Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, revealed that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, welcomed Ekpa’s arrest, which was authorized by a Finnish district court in Lahti based on probable cause.

The Enugu State government swiftly condemned Ekpa, describing him as a criminal, fraudster, and terrorist who does not represent the true interests of the Igbo people. It accused him of being a murderer who profits from exploiting the suffering of his own community. In a statement issued by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, Enugu pledged to provide evidence of Ekpa’s crimes to aid in his prosecution, whether in Finland or Nigeria.

The statement further emphasized that Ekpa’s arrest is a positive step toward peace, security, and stability in the South East region. It echoed Governor Peter Mbah’s stance that Ekpa’s actions have caused immense harm, creating a climate of fear and destruction that undermines the Igbo values of entrepreneurship and resilience. The Enugu government reiterated that Ekpa thrives by manipulating the emotions of the people under the false pretext of fighting for Biafra’s restoration.