AGF Denies Reports of Extradition Process Against Simon Ekpa, Urges Media Caution

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has dismissed media claims that the federal government has begun extradition proceedings against Simon Ekpa, a leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a statement released by Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Adviser to the President on Communication and Publicity, Fagbemi clarified that such reports misrepresented his remarks at a recent Stakeholders/Citizen Engagement Forum in Abuja.

The AGF stated that Nigeria has not initiated any extradition process against Ekpa, who is currently on trial in Finland over charges brought by the Finnish government. Instead, Nigerian authorities are collaborating with Finland to ensure Ekpa answers for his alleged cross-border offenses.

Fagbemi noted that the government is closely observing the trial in Finland and will decide on further actions based on its outcome. He cautioned the media against speculative reporting and stressed the need for accuracy, given the case’s sensitivity.

“The Attorney General urges the media to exercise restraint and avoid spreading unverified information that could escalate this delicate situation,” the statement said.

Ekpa, accused of inciting violence in Nigeria’s Southeast, remains under investigation by Finnish authorities. The Nigerian government is expected to decide on potential extradition only after the Finnish trial concludes.