MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS CONFIRMS ARREST OF IPOB LEADER IN FINLAND 22-11-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the arrest of Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen and leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB.
A statement by the acting spokesperson of the Ministry Mr. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa explains the Ekpa was arrested on Thursday, November 21, 2024, by Finnish authorities on charges of inciting terrorism and promoting violence.
It states that the Finnish authorities detained him after the Päijät-Häme District Court found probable cause that he had used social media to incite crimes with terrorist intent.
According to Finnish officials, Ekpa’s online activities involved spreading separatist propaganda and encouraging violence, which significantly disrupted the South-East region of Nigeria.
The arrest follows persistent diplomatic pressure from Nigeria urging Finland to take action against Ekpa’s activities that have contributed to instability in the region.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs views Ekpa’s arrest as a crucial step in addressing the influence of IPOB and transnational actors on Nigeria’s national security.
The statement adds that the Ministry will continue to monitor the legal proceedings in Finland and provide further updates as the case progresses.