CDS Musa Hails Simon Ekpa’s Terrorism Conviction as Landmark Victory Against Global Extremism
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has welcomed the six-year prison sentence handed to Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafra separatist, by a Finnish court for terrorism-related offenses.
According to General Musa, the conviction marks a significant milestone in the global fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
In a statement released by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, General Musa emphasized that the ruling sends a strong message that there is no safe haven for individuals or groups who sponsor or encourage acts of terror against Nigeria or any other sovereign state.
He commended the Finnish authorities for their diligence in ensuring justice is served and expressed appreciation to Nigerian security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies, as well as diplomats, for their collaborative efforts in securing Ekpa’s conviction.
The CDS reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to working with global partners to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace across Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies in the ongoing battle against insurgency and violent separatist movements.
The conviction of Simon Ekpa, who was found guilty of inciting terrorism and participating in terrorist activities, is seen as a major win for Nigeria in its fight against terror.
Ekpa, who had been issuing “sit-at-home” orders in Nigeria’s Southeast and promoting violent resistance against authorities, was arrested in November 2024 and designated a “terrorism financier” by March 2025.
The Nigerian government has welcomed the verdict, with Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi describing it as “good news” and a confirmation that Ekpa had influenced and committed heinous crimes against Nigerians, particularly in the Southeast.
