The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has hailed the six-year prison sentence handed to Simon Ekpa by a Finnish court, describing the judgment as a milestone in the global fight against terrorism.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the CDS welcomed the verdict of the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, which convicted Ekpa on terrorism-related offences.
General Musa said the ruling underscores the principle that those who incite violence or finance terrorism will face justice, regardless of where they operate from.
“This judgment sends a strong message that there is no safe haven for individuals or groups who sponsor or encourage acts of terror against Nigeria or any other sovereign state,” Musa stated. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria commend the Finnish authorities for their diligence in ensuring justice is served.”
The Defence Chief also expressed appreciation to Nigerian security, intelligence, law enforcement agencies, and diplomats for their role in providing actionable evidence that contributed to Ekpa’s conviction.
He noted that the outcome highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling cross-border security threats.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to the global fight against terrorism, General Musa assured that the Armed Forces will continue to collaborate with international partners to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace across the country.
He further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies in the fight against insurgency and violent separatist movements.