The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has welcomed the conviction of Simon Ekpa by a Finnish court, saying the ruling sends a clear message that individuals who incite violence or bankroll terrorism will not escape justice.
On Monday, the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland sentenced Ekpa to six years in prison after finding him guilty of terrorism-related offences, including participation in the activities of a terrorist organisation and incitement to commit crimes for terrorist purposes.
Reacting to the judgment, Musa described the ruling as a significant win in the global fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
“This judgment is a landmark victory in the international campaign to combat terrorism,” Musa said in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau. “It reinforces the principle that those who incite violence and fund terrorism will be held accountable, regardless of their location.”
The Defence Chief commended the contributions of Nigerian security, intelligence, and diplomatic agencies in providing evidence that helped secure the conviction.
“We deeply appreciate the efforts of our security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies, alongside our diplomats, whose painstaking collaboration ensured this outcome. It demonstrates the power of international cooperation in tackling transnational threats,” the statement added.
Musa reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to work with global partners in dismantling terrorist networks while urging Nigerians to support security operations at home.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in partnering with international allies to dismantle terrorist organisations and secure lasting peace in Nigeria. We call on citizens to remain vigilant and continue to support our security agencies in the fight against insurgency and separatist violence,” he said.
