The Nigerian Army has expressed satisfaction over the arrest and detention of the self-proclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa, in Finland.

On Thursday, Finnish law enforcement apprehended Ekpa, who was subsequently detained by the Päijät-Häme District Court on “probable cause for incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.”

According to the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Ekpa allegedly used his leadership position to promote violent actions against civilians and authorities in South Eastern Nigeria, coordinating efforts from Finland through social media.

Reacting, Nigeria’s Director of Defence Information, Tukur Gusau, stated that Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa welcomed Ekpa’s arrest, hoping it would pave the way for his “extradition to face justice.”

“We are delighted about his arrest and glad that the international community is partnering with Nigeria in our fight against terrorism,” added Director of Defence Media Operations Edward Buba.

Ekpa, a Finnish citizen, has previously faced detention for suspected fundraising fraud and advocated for election boycotts and violence in Nigeria.

He represents Finland’s National Coalition Party in local roles and serves on Lahti’s public transport committee.

IPOB is a separatist group seeking an independent state in southeastern Nigeria.