The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria, has petitioned the Finnish government demanding urgent investigation and repatriation of a certain Mr Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian national residing in Finland
Ekpa who is the factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) organization and Eastern Security Network (ESN) was accused of undermining Nigerian security agencies, deliberate misrepresentation of facts, through unfounded statements and actively undermining Nigeria’s unity and stability.
The letter, signed by a coalition of over 45 Nigerian civil society groups, calls for the immediate arrest, prosecution, and repatriation of Mr. Ekpa to Nigeria, where he can be held accountable for his actions.
According to a petition signed by the Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi to the President of Finland through the finnish ambassador to Nigeria, the statement said “From his base in Finland, Mr. Ekpa has engaged in a relentless campaign of disinformation, propaganda, and incitement against the Nigerian government, it’s security forces, and the country as a whole.
Particularly concerning is Mr. Ekpa’s role in issuing weekly “sit-at-home” orders, enforced by his militant ESN group, which have had devastating socioeconomic and humanitarian consequences for the people of southeastern Nigeria. His actions have directly contributed to the loss of lives and property in the region.
“Furthermore, the letter alleged that Mr. Ekpa’s ESN group has been responsible for ambushing and killing Nigerian security personnel, posing a grave threat to the country’s national security. This suggests that his activities go beyond mere rhetoric and have evolved into tangible acts of terrorism
“As a responsible member of the international community, Finland has an obligation to ensure that its territory is not used as a base for individuals or groups to engage in activities that threaten the stability and integrity of other nations. The continued unchecked operations of Mr. Ekpa from Finland raise serious concerns about the potential complicity or negligence of the Finnish government”
“Failure to do so would not only undermine Finland’s reputation as a promoter of peace and stability but also risk damaging its diplomatic relations with Nigeria, a key strategic partner in the African continent. The time has come for Finland to demonstrate its commitment to the principles of good governance and the rule of law by taking swift and decisive action against Mr. Ekpa and his ilk.”
