The Enugu State Government has applauded the Finnish government for arresting Simon Ekpa, the Finland-based leader of the Autopilots gang.
Ekpa the government in a statement on Friday in reaction to his arrest, described as a “common criminal, con man, and terrorist” who doesn’t have the best interests of the Igbo people at heart.
The government also labeled him a “murderer and fraudster” who profits from the misery of his people.
According to the Enugu State Government, statement which was signed by Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Ekpa’s arrest and trial will contribute significantly to restoring peace, security, and stability in the South East region.
The government has expressed its willingness to provide evidence of Ekpa’s atrocities against the Igbo people to aid in his trial and conviction, whether in Finland or Nigeria.
Ekpa’s arrest comes after Finnish authorities accused him of inciting violence and terrorism in Nigeria through his social media channels.
The statement partly read: “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.”
It added, “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,” the government said.
