The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has commended the Federal Government for the incarceration of Simon Ekpa in Finland, resulting in a six-year prison sentence on terrorism-related charges.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Deputy President General of the body, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, praised the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle; and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for their efforts in dismantling the reign of terror that had affected the South East zone.
“We commend the government for its landmark victory, specifically the incarceration of Simon Njoku Ekpa in Finland, resulting in a six-year prison sentence for terrorism-related charges,” Isiguzoro said.
He highlighted that the action has significantly reduced the influence of terrorism and insecurity in the Southeast, leading to the cessation of disruptive “sit-at-home” orders previously enforced by Ekpa.
“This development underscores the Igbo people’s resolute opposition to armed struggle under the guise of Biafra agitation. We unequivocally condemn terrorism in all its forms and reject any deviation from nonviolent self-determination principles. The Igbo nation stands united for peace and constructive dialogue,” Isiguzoro added.
The organisation also appealed to followers of Ekpa who were misled into armed struggle to lay down their weapons and embrace peace.
“We recognise that many of Ekpa’s followers are educated graduates and young entrepreneurs misled by false promises. This is a renewed clarion call for all armed agitators to surrender and cease violence. The Igbo leadership will advocate for rehabilitation and youth empowerment programs for repentant individuals,” Isiguzoro said.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with security agencies to permanently eradicate insecurity and terrorism within the Southeast, ensuring stability and societal progress.
On Monday, September 1, 2025, PUNCH Online reported that the Päijät-Häme District Court sentenced Nigerian-born Finnish, Simon Ekpa, to six years in prison for terrorism-related crimes and other offences, according to official court documents seen by BBC News Pidgin.
The 40-year-old former municipal politician from Lahti was convicted on multiple charges, including participation in the activities of a terrorist organisation, incitement to commit crimes for terrorist purposes, aggravated tax fraud, and violations of the Lawyers Act.
The court ordered that Ekpa remain in custody.
According to the judgment, between August 2021 and November 2024, Ekpa attempted to promote the independence of the so-called Biafra region in southeastern Nigeria through illegal means.
