Following the recent arrest of Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed Biafra leader, in Finland on terrorism-related charges, the Nigerian presidency has yet to issue an official statement. Ekpa’s detention in Lahti came as Finnish authorities allege he incited violence in Nigeria’s southeast region through social media since 2021. Ekpa faces accusations of promoting separatist propaganda for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and engaging in financial misconduct.
When questioned, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, explained that President Bola Tinubu is currently abroad and has not been briefed on the matter. Bwala clarified that official comments would likely come from the National Security Adviser or the Attorney General rather than the President directly.
The Nigerian government is expected to follow standard diplomatic protocol, with the embassy in Finland briefing the Foreign Affairs Ministry and National Security Adviser. Bwala emphasized the importance of waiting for the President’s official stance, adding that the issue requires a thorough response aligned with Nigeria’s legal and diplomatic processes.