The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has expressed firm support for the judgment by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, which sentenced Simon Ekpa to six years in prison for terrorism-related offences.
In a statement made available by the Director, Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, the CDS described the ruling as a landmark victory in the global effort to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
He noted that the conviction reinforces the principle that those who incite violence and fund terrorism will be held accountable, regardless of their location.
“This judgment sends a strong message that there is no safe haven for individuals or groups who sponsor or encourage acts of terror against Nigeria or any other sovereign state,” the CDS stated.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria commend the Finnish authorities for their diligence in ensuring justice is served.
CDS Musa also extended deep appreciation to Nigerian security, intelligence, law enforcement agencies, and diplomats for their unwavering collaboration and painstaking efforts in providing actionable evidence that led to Simon Ekpa’s conviction.
He noted that the success reflects the power of international cooperation and collaboration in addressing transnational threats.
General Musa reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ resolve to continue working with global partners to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure lasting peace and security across Nigeria.
He called on all Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies in the ongoing fight against insurgency and violent separatist movements.
The Federal Government had previously placed Ekpa and several other individuals and entities on the Nigeria Sanctions List in March 2025 for alleged involvement in terrorism financing.
This decision, following recommendations by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee, empowers the government to impose sanctions on individuals and organisations linked to terror-related activities, in line with Section 54 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) disclosed that the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), with the approval of President Bola Tinubu, authorised the designation of these individuals and entities.
As a result, authorities have been directed to identify and freeze all their funds, assets, and other economic resources without prior notice.
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