Simon Ekpa Set to Be Extradited to Nigeria to Face Charges, Says Defence Headquarters

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters in Abuja 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 against him.

In a brief statement provided to SaharaReporters, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, conveyed the satisfaction of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, regarding Ekpa’s arrest in Finland. Gusau expressed hope that this development would lead to Ekpa’s extradition, ensuring that he stands trial in Nigeria for his actions.

It was previously reported that the District Court in Lahti, Finland, ordered Ekpa’s remand on probable charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent in Nigeria. Ekpa is accused of using social media to spread separatist propaganda linked to IPOB, a group advocating for the secession of southeastern Nigeria. These offences are said to have begun on August 23, 2021. Finnish authorities have also previously investigated Ekpa for alleged financial crimes, including collecting funds through questionable means.

Otto Hiltunen, the Crime Commissioner of Finland’s Central Criminal Police, noted that the investigation indicates Ekpa’s activities have contributed to violence against civilians and authorities in southeastern Nigeria. His promotion of these actions through social media platforms is a central focus of the ongoing inquiry.