I
By Admin
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has debunked reports that the Federal Government has initiated extradition proceedings against Simon Ekpa, a self-styled factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement released on Friday through his Special Assistant on Communication and Publicity, Kamarudeen Ogundele, the AGF clarified that his remarks during a stakeholders’ forum on Thursday in Abuja were misrepresented by sections of the media.
“The report is untrue and a complete departure from what the AGF said,” the statement read.
“There is no extradition process ongoing against Simon Ekpa.” the released added
AGF explained that while Simon Ekpa is currently undergoing trial in Finland for offences filed by the Finnish government, Nigeria is maintaining diplomatic channels to ensure accountability for Ekpa’s cross-border activities that have drawn concern from Nigerian authorities.
“What the AGF said during the Question and Answers session was that the Nigerian government had been engaging with Finnish authorities to ensure Ekpa is held accountable,”
“We await the outcome of the trial in Finland to make an informed decision on possible next steps.”
Ekpa, known for his provocative online broadcasts and sit-at-home directives in Nigeria’s South-East region, remains a controversial figure whose activities have prompted legal interest both at home and abroad.
He further urged media outlets to verify facts and avoid sensationalism in reporting sensitive legal matters, especially those involving international cooperation and security.
“This is a delicate issue involving cross-border justice and diplomacy,” Fagbemi cautioned. “Misinformation only hampers the process.” he concluded