Enugu State Government Offers Evidence Against Simon Ekpa, Applauds Finnish Authorities for Arrest
The Enugu State Government has declared its readiness to provide evidence of alleged atrocities committed in South-east Nigeria by Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafra agitator.
This follows Ekpa’s arrest by Finnish authorities on Thursday, alongside four others, on suspicion of terrorist activities.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Chidiebere Onyia, highlighted that the arrest aligns with the demands of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.
According to Onyia, the Finnish authorities have been responsive to calls for action against Ekpa, who has been accused of inciting violence in South-east Nigeria.
Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen and leader of a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) known as Autopilot, has been accused by Finnish police of contributing to violence and crimes against civilians in the region.
IPOB, which has been agitating for the creation of an independent state of Biafra from Nigeria’s South-east and parts of the South-south, has faced increasing scrutiny over its activities.
The Enugu State Government, through Onyia, described Ekpa as “a common criminal, con man, and terrorist” who exploits and manipulates the Igbo people under the guise of championing their interests.
The government further alleged that Ekpa has been responsible for orchestrating killings and destruction, living lavishly off the sufferings of the people he claims to represent.
The state government commended Finland for taking decisive action against Ekpa, noting that his arrest was a significant step towards restoring peace and stability in the South-east.
Onyia emphasised that Enugu State is prepared to assist in Ekpa’s prosecution by providing evidence of his alleged crimes.
“The government described Ekpa as a murderer and fraudster, who delights in killing his people and living large off their misery. Enugu State is ready and willing to provide evidence of Ekpa-sponsored atrocities against Ndigbo to aid his trial and conviction, whether in Finland or Nigeria,” Onyia stated.
The SSG expressed optimism that Ekpa’s arrest and potential trial would help dismantle the “siege mentality” he has perpetuated in the South-east.
He criticised Ekpa for undermining the Igbo people’s entrepreneurial spirit and prosperity through his campaigns of violence and extortion.
“Ekpa has, for long and unfortunately from Finland, made a living by creating a siege climate and mentality in the South-east, destroying lives, property, and the Igbo trademark of entrepreneurship and hard work,” Onyia said.
