Enugu Government Welcomes Simon Ekpa’s Arrest, Offers Evidence to Aid Trial
The Enugu State Government has commended the recent arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE), in Finland. Governor Peter Mbah’s administration described Ekpa as a criminal and terrorist who has inflicted harm on the Igbo people, contrary to their interests.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the government expressed its readiness to provide evidence to substantiate its claims against Ekpa. According to Onyia, Ekpa’s prosecution will promote peace, security, and stability in the South-East region.
“Ekpa has, for too long, created an atmosphere of fear and destruction in the South-East from his base in Finland. His actions have undermined the Igbo spirit of entrepreneurship and hard work, destroying lives and property while exploiting the people under the guise of fighting for their interests,” the statement read.
The Enugu State Government emphasized that Ekpa has profited from manipulating and extorting people, claiming to champion the restoration of Biafra. The administration accused him of feeding on the manipulated emotions of Ndígbo while causing misery across the region.
This development follows a ruling by a Finnish district court in Lahti, which ordered Ekpa’s detention alongside four others on suspicion of terrorist activities. The Enugu government reiterated its commitment to working with the Finnish authorities and Nigerian law enforcement to ensure justice is served, offering evidence to expedite his trial and conviction.
Governor Mbah’s administration has repeatedly disassociated itself from calls for the secession of Biafra, labeling such movements as detrimental to the unity and progress of the Igbo people. The government believes Ekpa’s trial is a critical step toward restoring peace and stability in the region.
“His arrest and prosecution will deter others who seek to exploit ethnic sentiments for personal gain while destabilizing our society. We remain resolute in defending the dignity and progress of Ndígbo,” the statement concluded.
