The Federal Government on Monday hailed the conviction of Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based pro-Biafra agitator, describing the ruling as a landmark victory for justice and a relief for victims of his incitement.
The Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland sentenced Ekpa to six years’ imprisonment for terrorism-related offences, a decision the Nigerian government said validates its long-standing position on his role in the violence linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
‘Watershed Moment’
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement, said the judgement represents “a watershed moment” for innocent Nigerians whose lives and livelihoods were disrupted by the violence allegedly sponsored by Ekpa and his collaborators.
READ ALSO: Finnish Court Sentences Simon Ekpa to 6 Years for Terrorism Crimes
“For years, Ekpa’s reckless incitement and orchestration of IPOB terror activities unleashed unspeakable pain on Nigeria. Families were shattered, businesses destroyed, children orphaned, and entire communities forced to live under fear,” Idris said.
He added that hundreds of lives were lost and many more maimed due to what he described as a “destructive and unlawful agenda” that undermined Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The minister further noted that by upholding the rule of law, the Finnish judiciary had vindicated Nigeria’s position and strengthened bilateral relations between both countries.
“This ruling sends a clear signal to extremists everywhere that the world is watching, and justice will catch up with those who seek to destabilise societies through terror,” he said.
Tinubu Govt Reaffirms Commitment
The statement emphasised that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains firm in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, pledging to mobilise diplomatic, military, and judicial resources to preserve national peace and unity.
The government also appealed to those misled by Ekpa and others to lay down their arms and embrace peace.
“Nigeria is big enough for all its people, but there can be no progress where violence and division prevail,” Idris stated.
Tribute to Security Agencies
The Federal Government expressed gratitude to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, security and intelligence agencies, the Ministry of Justice, and the Police for their sacrifices in keeping the nation safe.
“Their service and the resilience of the Nigerian people remain the backbone of our enduring unity,” the statement read.
As Nigeria marks what it calls a “turning point”, the government urged citizens at home and abroad to work together for national unity, peace, and security.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
