Nigeria has commended Finland for convicting Simon Ekpa, a self-styled pro-Biafra campaigner, sentencing him to six years in prison for incitement to violence and terrorism financing.
In a statement on Monday, Information Minister Mohammed Idris said the verdict was a victory for the countless Nigerians affected by years of bloodshed linked to Ekpa’s activities. He described the ruling as a “turning point” that affirms Nigeria’s calls for accountability.
“Through IPOB’s terror campaigns, Ekpa and his collaborators inflicted untold hardship: lives were lost, families broken, businesses ruined, and communities forced to endure fear and instability,” Idris said.
He added that the Finnish decision reinforced the global commitment to rule of law and demonstrated that extremists cannot act with impunity. The judgment, he noted, also opened avenues to deepen diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Finland.
Idris pledged that the Tinubu administration would continue mobilising diplomatic, military and judicial resources to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He urged armed separatists and their sympathisers to abandon violence and embrace reconciliation.
The minister also extended appreciation to Nigerian defence and security institutions for their role in providing evidence that contributed to Ekpa’s conviction, praising their courage and sacrifices in protecting the nation.
“As we mark this important milestone, Nigerians everywhere must rally together to strengthen unity, peace, and security,” Idris concluded.
