The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has hailed the conviction of Simon Ekpa, leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by a Finnish court.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has hailed the conviction of Simon Ekpa, leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by a Finnish court.
In a statement on Tuesday, Fagbemi described the verdict as a “welcome development and a victory in the fight against insecurity.”
“We receive the good news of the conviction of the leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra, Simon Ekpa, by the Finnish court,” the AGF said.
He noted that the conviction, which arose from terrorism and related charges filed against Ekpa by the Finnish authorities, validates Nigeria’s position on his alleged role in instigating violence in the South East.
“His conviction for terrorism and other related offences is a confirmation that Ekpa had influenced and committed heinous crimes against the Nigerian people, especially in the South East,” Fagbemi stated.
The Minister further commended Finland for cooperating with Nigeria in tackling transnational security threats.
“We commend the Finnish authorities for supporting Nigeria in the fight against insecurity and see this as a signal of future collaboration,” he stressed.
Fagbemi disclosed that Nigeria would take appropriate steps after reviewing the judgment once a certified copy is received.
“Appropriate further actions would be taken upon receipt and understudying a copy of the judgement of the court,” he assured.