Simon Ekpa, leader of the Biafra Government in Exile, responds to Nigeria’s attempts to extradite him from Finland by inviting Nigerian officials to a debate at the upcoming Biafra Convention. His reaction has stirred controversy, emphasizing the ongoing tension between the Nigerian government and Biafra agitators.
Biafra agitator and leader of the Biafra Government in Exile (BRGIE), Simon Ekpa, has issued a bold response to the Nigerian government’s recent efforts to extradite him from Finland. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced on Tuesday that the Nigerian government is actively engaging the European Union (EU) to facilitate Ekpa’s extradition. This move comes as Ekpa continues to push forward with his plans for the official declaration of the Biafra Republic.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations at DHQ, revealed the government’s ongoing discussions with the EU in response to Ekpa’s announcement of December 2 as the date for the map presentation and official declaration of Biafra. The Nigerian government views Ekpa’s activities as a significant threat, prompting efforts to bring him back to Nigeria to face charges.
However, Simon Ekpa, who serves as the Prime Minister of BRGIE, responded defiantly through a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Wednesday. He extended an invitation to Nigerian officials, urging them to attend the upcoming Biafra Convention in Lahti, Finland, scheduled from November 29 to December 3, 2024. Ekpa argued that their participation would provide a platform for open dialogue and debate regarding the Biafra liberation movement.
“We are inviting them as Nigeria representatives and observers. The government of Biafra will recognize their presence in Finland and an opportunity to engage Simon Ekpa on the podium for a debate on Nigeria,” Ekpa stated. He emphasized that the Nigerian government’s persistent calls to the EU and Finland to take action against him only validate the legitimacy and influence of the Biafra Government in Exile and the Biafra de facto government within the homeland.
Ekpa’s invitation specifically extended to Major General Edward Buba, who he claimed has already been approved for a special accreditation card to attend the convention. Furthermore, Ekpa invited Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, to participate in the event, which he believes will provide an opportunity for the Nigerian government to address its concerns directly.
The Nigerian government’s attempts to extradite Ekpa have been met with mixed reactions. While some view it as a necessary step to quell the Biafra movement, others see it as a potential catalyst for further unrest. Ekpa’s defiance and his invitation to Nigerian officials have only intensified the debate, bringing the Biafra issue back into the international spotlight.
As the date for the Biafra Convention approaches, all eyes will be on Finland to see how this unfolding drama between the Nigerian government and Biafra agitators will play out. The outcome could have significant implications for the future of the Biafra movement and Nigeria’s geopolitical landscape.
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