The Finnish government has stated that the judicial process concerning Simon Ekpa, a prominent figure within the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), must be fully exhausted before any extradition decision can be made. Ekpa, who resides in Finland, has been accused by the Nigerian government of inciting violence and calling for Biafra’s secession through various online platforms.
During a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Finland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen, assured that the legal matter involving Ekpa will reach a conclusion soon. Valtonen emphasized that the case is strictly judicial, not political, and that Finland, as a democratic nation that upholds the rule of law, will allow the legal proceedings to run their course before taking any action.
“The case against the person in question is a judicial issue which must run through its course,” Valtonen stated. She reiterated that Finland operates strictly by the rule of law and is in full collaboration with Nigerian authorities on this matter.
Valtonen’s remarks came during a visit to Nigeria by ministers of foreign affairs from five Nordic countries. The delegation, which included representatives from Sweden, Iceland, Norway, and Denmark, expressed a strong interest in strengthening trade relations with Nigeria, recognizing the country as a key partner.
