Enugu State Government has praised the Republic of Finland for the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the Finland-based leader of the criminal group known as Autopilots.
KanyiDaily recalls that Simon Ekpa was recently arrested in Finland for alleged involvement in terror-related activities in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Enugu government commended the arrest of Simon Ekpa.
It condemned Ekpa’s actions and offered to provide evidence of his alleged crimes against the Igbo people to support his prosecution, whether in Finland or Nigeria.
The government labeled Ekpa a fraudster, terrorist, and murderer who has no regard for the well-being of the Igbo people.
Enugu government expressed confidence that Ekpa’s arrest would deter further unrest and bring relief to the South East.
The statement reads, “The Enugu State Government welcomes the arrest of the Finland-based terrorist, Simon Ekpa.
“His arrest and trial will no doubt go a long way in strengthening peace, security, and stability in all parts of the South East.
“This arrest is in line with the demand of Governor Peter Mbah Administration, which has repeatedly made it known that Ekpa is a megalomaniac, common criminal, murderer, and fraudster, who takes joy in feeding fat on the manipulated emotions of Ndigbo and inflicting misery on the South-East region.
“Ekpa has for long, and unfortunately from Finland, made a living by creating a siege climate and mentality in the South East, destroying lives, property, and the Igbo trademark of entrepreneurship and hard work.
“He thrives on manipulating, exploiting, and extorting the people on the pretext of fighting for their interest and for the restoration of Biafra.”
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters has confirmed that Simon Ekpa will be extradited to Nigeria following his arrest by Finnish authorities.