CDS Hails Ekpa’s Sentencing, Reaffirms Military’s Resolve Against Terrorism

By Zainab Bakare

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has commended the verdict delivered by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, which sentenced Simon Ekpa to six years in prison for terrorism-related offences.

Ekpa is a Finnish citizen and leads the agitation for a sovereign state of Biafra in South East Nigeria, from the European country where he has been accused of instigating violence and acts akin to terrorism in his native Nigeria.

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the CDS described the ruling as a significant milestone in the international fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

He emphasized that the conviction underscores the principle that individuals who incite violence or fund terrorist activities will face justice, regardless of their location.

“This judgment sends a clear and powerful message: there is no safe haven for those who sponsor or promote acts of terror against Nigeria or any sovereign nation,” General Musa said. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria commend the Finnish authorities for their commitment to justice and the rule of law.”

General Musa also extended his appreciation to Nigerian security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies, as well as the country’s diplomatic corps, for their role in securing the conviction.

He credited their persistent collaboration and intelligence-sharing with providing the crucial evidence that supported the case.

“This outcome reflects the strength of international cooperation in tackling transnational threats,” he added.

Reaffirming the Armed Forces’ dedication to national and global security, General Musa pledged continued collaboration with international partners to dismantle terrorist networks and promote lasting peace across Nigeria.

He further urged all Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies in their efforts to combat insurgency and violent separatist activities.