The Nigerian government has officially confirmed the arrest of Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the criminal gang known as the Autopilots. Ekpa’s arrest was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, following his detention by Finnish authorities on Thursday.
According to the ministry, Ekpa was arrested on charges of inciting terrorism and promoting violence. The Finnish District Court of Päijät-Häme detained Ekpa based on probable cause, citing his public incitement of crimes with terrorist intent. Finnish authorities have accused Ekpa of using social media platforms to spread separatist propaganda, incite violence, and encourage illegal actions, which have led to significant disruptions in Nigeria’s southeastern region. Investigators also linked Ekpa’s online activities to several violent incidents in the region.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the efforts of the Finnish authorities, promising to monitor the legal proceedings and provide updates as the case progresses. The ministry also stated that Ekpa’s arrest follows sustained diplomatic pressure from the Nigerian government on Finland to take action against his activities, which have been connected to instability in the South-east of Nigeria. High-level engagements between the two countries included requests for action against Ekpa’s influence on national security.
In response to the arrest, the Enugu State Government expressed strong support for Finland’s actions, describing Ekpa as a “common criminal,” “con man,” and “terrorist” who has exploited the suffering of the Igbo people for personal gain. In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Enugu government reiterated its stance that Ekpa is a murderer and fraudster who has caused harm to the South-east region. The state further expressed its willingness to provide evidence of atrocities allegedly sponsored by Ekpa to assist in his trial, whether in Finland or Nigeria.
“The arrest and trial of Simon Ekpa will go a long way in strengthening peace, security, and stability in all parts of the South-east,” said Prof. Onyia. “Ekpa has made a living by creating a siege mentality in the South-east, destroying lives, properties, and the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo people.”
The Enugu State Government also reiterated its position that the Ekpa-led violence, under the guise of fighting for Biafra’s restoration, has caused suffering and instability in the region. Governor Peter Mbah’s administration had previously condemned Ekpa’s actions, labelling him a megalomaniac who manipulates the emotions of the people for personal gain.
The Nigerian government and Enugu State have both expressed hope that the legal proceedings against Ekpa will help neutralize the influence of IPOB and its affiliates, ultimately contributing to the restoration of peace and security in the South-east.