In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Simon Ekpa, a self-styled leader of a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was reportedly arrested by Finnish authorities following intense pressure from the Nigerian government.
Ekpa, a dual Finnish-Nigerian citizen, has been a vocal advocate for the separatist agenda in Nigeria's southeast, often accused of inciting violence through his broadcasts.
According to sources close to the development, Finnish law enforcement detained Ekpa at his residence in Lahti.
His arrest comes after months of Nigerian diplomatic lobbying to hold him accountable for his controversial online rhetoric, which Nigerian officials claim has fueled insecurity and economic disruptions in the region.
Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed the government’s role in facilitating the arrest.
"This is a collaborative effort to ensure that individuals who incite violence from the safety of foreign soil face justice. It underscores our commitment to peace and security in Nigeria," he stated.
Simon Ekpa has been a polarizing figure, known for his strong advocacy of sit-at-home orders in Nigeria’s southeast.
These orders, often enforced with threats of violence, have paralyzed economic activities and left communities in fear.
The Nigerian government holds him responsible for orchestrating attacks that have claimed lives and destroyed infrastructure.
His broadcasts, often laden with inflammatory rhetoric, have drawn widespread condemnation from both Nigerian authorities and citizens, with many accusing him of exploiting his Finnish residency to evade prosecution.
This arrest highlights the growing importance of international cooperation in addressing cross-border crimes.
Nigeria has praised Finland for its responsiveness, emphasizing the need for stronger global partnerships in tackling such issues.
While details of the charges against Ekpa remain unclear, experts suggest that his extradition to Nigeria could be sought under international legal frameworks.
The development has sparked mixed reactions. Pro-Biafra supporters have decried the arrest as politically motivated, while many Nigerians have hailed it as a step toward curbing violent separatist agendas.
Observers now await further updates on Ekpa’s legal proceedings and their implications for Nigeria’s ongoing fight against separatism and insecurity.