The Defence Headquarters in Abuja has announced that Simon Ekpa, one of the leaders of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), is now a wanted individual.
Ekpa’s name has been included in a list of 97 individuals wanted by the Military for various offenses across the country, including terrorism, violent extremism, and secessionist activities.
Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the identities and images of those who have been declared wanted, including Ekpa who is known for leading a faction of IPOB and initiating the Monday sit-at-home order in the South-East region.
The list of wanted persons includes individuals from different zones in the country, with a significant number coming from the North West, North East, North Central, and South-East regions.
Notable figures among the wanted individuals in the North West zone are leaders of bandits and terrorists such as Alhaji Shingi, Malindi Yakubu, and Boka, among others, who are involved in criminal activities like banditry and kidnapping.
In the North East, terrorists commanders like Abu Zaida, Modu Sulum, and Baba Data are among the 33 individuals declared wanted for their involvement in insurgency and related activities.
Similarly, in the North Central and South East regions, 21 insurgents, militants, and violent criminals have been declared wanted by the authorities for their roles in destabilizing activities.
Among those listed are Simon Ekpa, Chika Edoziem, Egede, Zuma, ThankGod Gentle, Flavour, Mathew, David Ndubuisi, High Chief Williams Agbor, Ebuka Nwaka, and Friday Ojimka, all associated with the South East region.
Additionally, individuals such as Obiemesi Chukwudi, David Ezekwem Chidiebube, and Amobi Chinonso Okafor are also mentioned in relation to the same area.
In February 2023, Simon Ekpa, a prominent figure, was apprehended in Finland for his statements regarding the upcoming elections in the South-East region.
Ekpa’s arrest took place in Lahti, Finland, following his declarations against the elections and his support for a sit-at-home protest every Monday.
Despite Ekpa’s arrest, the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) distanced themselves from his actions, emphasizing that he was not officially representing the group.
After being released, Ekpa continued to share his pro-Biafran views on social media platforms, remaining active in advocating for the cause.
