The Federal Government has welcomed the conviction of Simon Ekpa, a self-styled pro-Biafra agitator, by a Finnish court for terrorism offenses. The Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland sentenced Ekpa to six years’ imprisonment on Monday.
In a statement released Monday, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the judgment as a “watershed moment” for Nigeria and a significant boost to bilateral relations between Nigeria and Finland.
Ekpa’s activities, including inciting and financing violence through the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), had caused immense harm to innocent Nigerians, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of businesses, and displacement of communities.
The Nigerian government commended the Finnish judiciary for upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting citizens’ dignity.
The government urged those misguided by Ekpa and others to lay down their arms and embrace peace, emphasizing that Nigeria is big enough for all its people. The statement also expressed gratitude to security agencies and the Office of the National Security Adviser for their sacrifices and commitment to securing the country.
The Federal Government called on all Nigerians to work together for national unity, peace, and security, marking this conviction as a turning point in the country’s efforts to preserve peace and stability.
