The Defence Headquarters in Abuja has issued a declaration naming one of the leaders of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa, among 97 individuals wanted for various charges including terrorism, violent extremism, and secessionist threats against the state.
The banner released by the Defence Headquarters prominently displays the names and photographs of the wanted suspects, with Ekpa singled out as a significant figure controlling a faction of IPOB. Notably, he has been associated with the organization’s declaration of the infamous Monday sit-at-home protest in the South-East region.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the identities of the wanted individuals, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges against them. The list spans across different regions of the country, with individuals wanted for various crimes including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and insurgency.
In the North West zone, 43 individuals have been declared wanted, including notorious bandits and terrorist leaders such as Alhaji Shingi, Malindi Yakubu, and Boka. Similarly, in the North East, 33 individuals, mostly terrorist commanders, have been named wanted, including Abu Zaida, Modu Sulum, and Baba Data.
Furthermore, in the North Central and South East regions, 21 insurgents, militants, and violent criminals have been identified as wanted. Among them are factional IPOB leader Simon Ekpa, Chika Edoziem, and Egede.
The Defence Headquarters’ move to declare these individuals wanted underscores the government’s determination to combat terrorism and other forms of criminal activities across the country. It also sends a clear message that perpetrators of such acts will be held accountable for their actions.
Efforts to bring these wanted individuals to justice are underway, with security agencies intensifying their operations to apprehend them. The public is urged to provide any relevant information that may assist in the arrest of these suspects, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in ensuring peace and security in Nigeria.
