Biafra Agitator Simon Ekpa Detained As Finnish Authorities Free Two Associates

Two suspects arrested alongside Simon Ekpa, a factional leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), have reportedly been released by Finnish authorities.

Ekpa, detained on November 21, 2024, along with four others, is accused of involvement in terror-related activities, including incitement to violence and financing terrorism in Nigeria. Following his arrest, the Päijät-Häme District Court ordered his detention, citing his alleged role in “spreading terrorist propaganda on social media.”

Since November, the group has been in custody, but sources have now confirmed to The Nation that two of Ekpa’s alleged co-conspirators have been released. Details regarding their identities or the reasons for their release remain undisclosed.

Government officials confirmed that Ekpa remains in custody but declined to comment further on his case.

This development comes as Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, announced that the Nigerian government has formally requested Ekpa’s extradition. Gen. Musa revealed that all necessary documents have been submitted to the Finnish government, expressing confidence that appropriate legal action will follow.

“The Federal Government has forwarded the required documentation to the Finnish Government. I’m sure the proper steps will be taken,” Musa said.

Meanwhile, investigations indicate that the Finnish government is working with Nigerian authorities to address IPOB’s violent activities in Nigeria’s southern regions.