The Enugu State Government has declared its readiness to present evidence of atrocities allegedly orchestrated by Simon Ekpa, the self-styled leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement issued on Friday, Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the Enugu State Government, labelled Ekpa a “terrorist” with no genuine regard for the welfare of the Igbo people.
Ekpa was arrested on Thursday by law enforcement authorities in a northern European nation and subsequently remanded in custody by the Päijät-Häme District Court for “spreading terrorist propaganda on social media.” The charges stem from offences committed in 2021 in the municipality of Lahti.
Since 2021, persistent violence in the south-east geopolitical zone has been widely linked to the activities of the Ekpa-led faction of IPOB.
Onyia stated that the Enugu government welcomed Ekpa’s arrest, expressing optimism that it would usher in peace and stability across the south-east.
“The government described Ekpa as a murderer and fraudster who thrives on the suffering of his people, using their misery to fund his lavish lifestyle. Enugu State is prepared to provide evidence of his atrocities against Ndigbo to support his prosecution and conviction, whether in Finland or Nigeria,” the statement read.
“His arrest and trial will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening peace, security, and stability throughout the south-east.
“This development aligns with the stance of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, which has consistently condemned Ekpa as a megalomaniac, a common criminal, and a fraudster. He has preyed on the emotions of Ndigbo, using manipulation to inflict misery on the south-east region.
“From his base in Finland, Ekpa has sustained a climate of siege in the south-east, destroying lives, property, and the entrepreneurial spirit for which the Igbo are renowned.
“He continues to exploit and extort the people under the guise of championing their interests and advocating for the restoration of Biafra.”
