NIGERIA: Tinubu Praises Finland Over Simon Ekpa’s Arrest, Strengthens International Ties

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has commended the Finnish government for its decisive action in arresting and detaining Simon Ekpa.

He described the development as a vital step toward safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and peaceful coexistence.

The President expressed his appreciation while receiving Letters of Credence from the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, at the State House in Abuja on Friday.

He highlighted Finland’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic values and addressing factors that threaten national cohesion.

This was contained in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The statement read; “Nigeria is indivisible. We have endured turbulent times, and we don’t want to promote terrorism. Stability and cohesion are essential for progress, and I thank you for your efforts in protecting human rights through the trial of Simon Ekpa.”

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law, describing it as the cornerstone of democratic principles and governance.

He said; “The rule of law safeguards our democratic credentials, morals, and values. We must respect the rule of law.”

In response, Ambassador Selin praised Tinubu’s reforms aimed at revitalising Nigeria’s economy.

She acknowledged the challenges facing the nation but emphasised that these efforts are crucial for long-term growth.

Selin also applauded the growing collaboration between Finland and Nigeria, noting that Ekpa’s activities had previously strained bilateral relations.

“This cooperation has significantly improved relations, and the National Security Adviser has provided all the necessary evidence,” Selin said.

Tinubu seized the opportunity to explore areas of collaboration with Finland, particularly in sectors such as ICT, agriculture, and education.

He also commended Finland’s humanitarian efforts in Nigeria’s North-East region.

Additionally, the President received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union, Gautier Mignot, and the Algerian Ambassador, Hocine Mezoued.

Tinubu called for stronger partnerships with the EU in trade and technology and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation, including the Trans-Saharan African Gas Pipeline project with Algeria.

Simon Ekpa, a self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was recently arrested and imprisoned in Finland for “spreading terrorist propaganda” on social media.

Ekpa’s activities included inciting violence, enforcing sit-at-home orders, and promoting actions that led to civilian deaths and attacks on security agents in southeastern Nigeria.

His rise to prominence followed the arrest of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu in 2021, after which Ekpa led a more violent faction of the group.

Operating from abroad, he used platforms such as the Biafra Republic Government in Exile to advocate for Nigeria’s division.