By Barth Ikiebe.
The Federal Government has welcomed the conviction of Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based Nigerian and self-proclaimed Biafra agitator, by a Finnish court. Ekpa was sentenced to six years in prison for terrorism-related offences.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, described the judgment as significant for victims of violence linked to separatist activities in parts of the country.
He said the ruling affirms Nigeria’s long-standing concerns over Ekpa’s role in inciting unrest and offers an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Finland.
“By upholding the rule of law, the Finnish judiciary has reinforced the importance of accountability and justice in maintaining peace and order,” the minister said.
He added that the decision sends a message against extremism and demonstrates the global resolve to hold individuals accountable for actions that threaten peace and security.
Idris reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety and dignity of its citizens, stressing that government will continue to employ diplomatic, judicial, and security measures to preserve national unity and stability.
He urged those still engaging in violent agitation to lay down their arms and embrace peaceful dialogue, noting that “progress is only possible in an atmosphere of unity and peace.”
The minister also acknowledged the efforts of Nigeria’s security institutions and stakeholders in addressing the challenges of insecurity, commending their resilience and dedication.
Earlier, a Finnish court sentenced Ekpa to six years in prison after finding him guilty of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent between August 2021 and November 2024.
Ekpa was arrested by Finnish authorities on November 21, 2024, following investigations by the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The probe focused on allegations that he used social media platforms to incite violence, which contributed to unrest in southeastern Nigeria.
The court also ordered the freezing of Ekpa’s assets, along with those of his associates and related companies, as part of the proceedings.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
