CDS hails Finnish court’s six-year jail term for Simon Ekpa

By Kunle Sanni –

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has commended a Finnish court’s decision sentencing Simon Ekpa to six years in prison for terrorism-related offences, describing the ruling as a major boost to global efforts against terrorism and violent extremism.

Delivering judgment on Monday, the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland convicted Ekpa for inciting violence and funding terrorism, offences linked to unrest in parts of Nigeria.

General Musa said the verdict affirms that “there is no safe haven for individuals or groups who sponsor or encourage acts of terror against Nigeria or any other sovereign state.” He praised the Finnish authorities for their diligence and thanked Nigerian security, intelligence, and diplomatic agencies for providing critical evidence that secured the conviction.

“This judgment sends a strong message that those who incite violence will be held accountable, regardless of where they are,” Musa stated. “It reflects the power of international cooperation in dismantling terrorist networks.”

The Defence Chief reiterated the Armed Forces’ commitment to collaborate with global partners to combat insurgency, separatist violence, and terrorism. He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies in safeguarding peace and national unity.