CDS hails Finnish court verdict on Simon Ekpa, pledges sustained fight against terrorism
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, has commended the judgment of the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland which sentenced Simon Ekpa to six years imprisonment for terrorism-related offences.
Musa, in a statement by the Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Monday in Abuja, described the verdict as a landmark victory in the global effort to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
He said the conviction reinforced the principle that individuals who incite violence and fund terrorism would be held accountable, regardless of their location.
“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.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria commend the Finnish authorities for their diligence in ensuring justice is served,” he said.
The CDS also appreciated Nigerian security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies as well as diplomats for their collaboration and painstaking efforts in providing actionable evidence that led to Ekpa’s conviction.
He said the outcome demonstrated the power of international cooperation in addressing transnational threats.
Musa reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to work with global partners to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure lasting peace and security across Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies in the ongoing fight against insurgency and violent separatist movements.
