The Federal Government of Nigeria has denied initiating extradition proceedings against Simon Ekpa, a factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who is currently facing trial in Finland.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), clarified the government’s position in a statement released on Friday by his Special Assistant on Communication and Publicity, Kamarudeen Ogundele. The clarification follows widespread media reports alleging that extradition efforts had begun.
Fagbemi described the reports as a misrepresentation of comments he made during a stakeholders’ engagement held in Abuja on Thursday. He explained that while the Nigerian government is in dialogue with Finnish authorities concerning Ekpa’s activities, no formal extradition process has been initiated.
The statement emphasized that the government’s engagement with Finland is aimed at ensuring accountability for Ekpa’s alleged cross-border offenses. It added that Nigeria awaits the outcome of Ekpa’s ongoing trial in Finland before determining its next course of action.
Fagbemi urged media outlets to avoid speculative reporting and verify information before publication.
