The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to pursue the extradition of Simon Ekpa, the leader of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the paramilitary wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Ekpa was recently arrested in Finland alongside four others on charges related to terrorism, including incitement to violence and terrorism financing.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, confirmed on Thursday that Ekpa should be extradited to Nigeria to face criminal charges. Ekpa, a self-proclaimed disciple of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, is one of 97 individuals declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters in March 2024.
Charges Against Ekpa
Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, is accused of inciting violence and coordinating attacks against civilians and authorities in Nigeria’s South-East region through social media. Finland’s Central Criminal Police revealed that he and his accomplices face charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent and financing terrorism.
The District Court of Päijät-Häme, Finland, has ordered Ekpa’s detention, citing probable cause for his involvement in these activities.
International and National Responses
The arrest has garnered significant attention, with many Nigerians online demanding Ekpa’s extradition to face terrorism charges in Nigeria. The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, expressed satisfaction with Ekpa’s arrest, describing it as a step toward justice.
In a statement, Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the military’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the South-East, stating, “The CDS has always called for the arrest of Simon Ekpa following his deep involvement in fuelling terrorism in SE Nigeria. We are delighted about his arrest and glad that the international community is partnering with Nigeria in our fight against terrorism.”
IPOB’s Stance
Interestingly, IPOB has dissociated itself from Ekpa, asserting that it has no relationship with him. This distancing comes amidst allegations that Ekpa has used his influence to issue sit-at-home orders and disrupt elections in the South-East, further fueling unrest in the region.
Background of Violence
Ekpa’s Eastern Security Network has been implicated in numerous violent activities since its establishment in December 2020. Initially formed to counter armed herdsmen, the ESN’s operations have escalated, leading to significant unrest, including attacks on police stations, military checkpoints, and government facilities.
The ESN’s sit-at-home orders, especially on Mondays or during significant IPOB events, have paralyzed economic activities in the region. Defiance of these orders has resulted in violent reprisals, including arson and extrajudicial killings.
The Federal Government has labeled the ESN a terrorist organization and launched military operations to dismantle it. Despite these efforts, clashes between the ESN, local vigilante groups, and state-backed security outfits have continued to escalate insecurity in the South-East.
Recent Violence in Anambra
In a recent incident, Anambra Central Senatorial Zone witnessed chaos as gunmen enforcing a sit-at-home order attacked multiple communities, leaving five dead and several injured. Vehicles were set ablaze, and vigilante members were fatally shot, underscoring the ongoing instability in the region.
Next Steps
Ekpa’s arrest represents a significant development in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria. The Federal Government, in collaboration with international partners, is expected to expedite efforts to secure his extradition to face justice and address the broader security challenges in the South-East.
