The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has lauded the arrest of separatist leader, Simon Ekpa by the Finnish Police.
It described the arrest as a key victory in the anti-terror fight.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen Edward Buba, and the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau said this in a separate statement on Thursday.
They said the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, has expressed happiness over Ekpa’s arrest.
Ekpa was arrested on Thursday in Finland alongside four others on suspicion of terror-related activities, including incitement to violence and terrorism financing.
Gen Buba, said Ekpa’s arrest was an indication that the international community is in synergy with Nigeria in its efforts to fight terrorism.
He said: “The CDS has always called for the arrest of Simon Ekpa following his deep involvement in fueling terrorism in South East Nigeria.
“We are delighted about his arrest, and glad that the international community is partnering with Nigerians in our fight against terrorism.”
On his part, Brig.-Gen. Gusau said the CDS is happy with his (Ekpa) arrest in Finland, “with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition to Nigeria so that he will face justice.”
DECENCY GLOBAL NEWS recalled that the Defence Headquarters had in March 2024 declared Ekpa who is factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), alongside 96 persons wanted for terrorism, violent extremism and secessionist threats against the country.
It said Ekpa, who is based in Finland, was believed to be behind the insecurity in the South-east region.
