Finnish Authorities Arrest Simon Ekpa and Four Others Over Alleged Terrorism Ties in Nigeria

In a significant crackdown, Finnish authorities have detained pro-Biafra activist Simon Ekpa alongside four others for alleged terrorism-related offenses connected to violent activities in Nigeria. Ekpa, known as the self-proclaimed “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, is accused of using social media to incite violence in Southeastern Nigeria. Simon Ekpa Arrested for Terrorism Incitement The Päijät-Häme District Court has remanded Ekpa in custody following an investigation by the Finnish Central Criminal Police. He faces charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent, while the other suspects are being investigated for financing terrorism-related crimes. In a statement, the Finnish police disclosed that the investigation involves a Finnish citizen of Nigerian origin, born in the 1980s, who allegedly incited criminal acts with terrorist objectives. Allegations of Incitement and Terrorism Financing Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen stated that Ekpa’s activities on social media have directly fueled violence in Nigeria, targeting civilians and government officials. Finnish authorities emphasized that the arrest reflects their commitment to combating terrorism and disrupting its funding networks. Global Cooperation Against Terrorism This arrest underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing terrorism and its associated crimes. Finnish law enforcement has assured the public that thorough investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the activities. Ekpa, a controversial figure, has long been a vocal supporter of Biafra separatism. His detention may mark a turning point in efforts to curb violence in Nigeria’s Southeastern region, which has been plagued by unrest. READ ALSO:

NSCDC Arrests Four Suspected Vandals in Niger State

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, has apprehended four suspects involved in vandalizing critical national assets, including streetlight poles, at Diko Junction in Tafa Local Government Area of Niger State. The arrests were made by the anti-vandal unit during a routine patrol on November 13, 2024. According to a statement released by the NSCDC’s spokesperson and signed by the State Commandant, Commandant A.A. Kambra, the suspects were caught in possession of tools used for vandalism. How the Arrests Happened During a patrol of the Tafa-Diko Junction area, the anti-vandal team discovered several streetlight poles that had been vandalized. Acting swiftly, the team launched a surveillance operation, which led to the arrest of four suspects: The statement noted that this decisive action underscores the NSCDC’s dedication to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring the safety of communities. Commitment to Public Safety Commandant A.A. Kambra emphasized the severe consequences of vandalism on communities, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. He assured the public that the NSCDC will continue working in collaboration with other security agencies to apprehend individuals who commit such crimes. “This swift response reflects our commitment to safeguarding critical national assets and maintaining public safety,” Kambra said. Support from Leadership and Government Commandant Kambra expressed gratitude to the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for his steadfast leadership and unwavering support. He also acknowledged Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State for his continued backing of the NSCDC’s operations. The NSCDC reaffirmed its dedication to protecting public infrastructure and maintaining law and order across the state, ensuring that those involved in vandalism are brought to justice. READ ALSO:

Police Arrest 17 Nigerians, 113 Foreigners For Cybercrimes, Hacking

130 people have been taken into custody by police for hacking and cybercrimes. According to Force spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the suspects include 113 foreign nationals and 17 Nigerians on Sunday. In a statement, Adejobi said that their actions were a threat to national security. “The suspects were allegedly using computers and other advanced devices to facilitate criminal activities at a building in the Next Cash and Carry area of Jahi, Abuja, where this strategic operation was carried out through a coordinated raid,” he said. “Officers from the Nigeria Police Force Zone 7 Command Abuja and the National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC) participated in the operation, which was directed by AIG Benneth Igweh, Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, on Saturday, November 3, 2024.” According to him, the Force is still looking into the matter, stating that a scientific analysis was being conducted on the exhibits that were retrieved from the accused. READ ALSO: Hardship: What I would have done differently – Atiku A force spokesperson went on to say that after the investigations were over, the accused will face charges in court. We love to have you back again. Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

EFCC arrests Edo’s accountant general and two other individuals

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained Julius Anelu, the Accountant General of Edo State, along with two other government officials as the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki in Edo State comes to a close. According to reports, the officials who were arrested were detained for allegedly making large withdrawals from the State’s derivation account. This comes after Obaseki’s administration was accused by Senator Monday Okpebholo “of last-minute borrowings and looting.” According to PUNCH, which cites a reliable source at the EFCC, N14 billion was left over a week after N24.6 billion was transferred into the government’s account. Approximately two to three people, including the state’s accountant general, were arrested. We have been looking into the Godwin Obaseki has been the state’s governor since 2022, but certain withdrawals from the state’s derivation account led to this most recent arrest. “Huge sums of money were taken out. For example, N24.6 billion was deposited into the account a few weeks ago. However, the account had roughly N14 billion left in less than a week. We have to act fast to save the state. The insider stated, “We are not doing that in any way to ground the state activities.” As of the time of this publication, the EFCC has not yet responded to the development in an official manner. Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo State who was restored, expressed concern about his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, allegedly plotting to embezzle funds from the state treasury. During a press event in Benin City, Shaibu said that he was offering a N1 million monetary prize to anyone with information about suspected government property looting as the administration comes to an end. He had also stated that he had proof of the last-minute borrowing from banking institutions and the purported looting in some areas. READ ALSO: 33 million Nigerians would experience a food catastrophe in 2025. Additionally, he had urged the Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and other pertinent organizations to investigate the purported misappropriation of funds intended for the ongoing Radisson Hotel project, the Ministry of Roads and Bridges, and last-minute appointments made by the departing administration. We love having you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

In Bauchi, police kill six people and seize weaponry.

As part of a crackdown on criminal groups in the state’s Ningi Local Government Area, the Bauchi State Police Command claims to have neutralized six thugs. During the operations, the police officers also found weapons and ammo. This was said at a press conference in Bauchi on Friday by Awwal Musa, the state’s police commissioner. “The Command recovered firearms and ammunition in the Ningi axis and neutralized six thugs.” In Alkaleri, Ningi, and Toro LGAs, he reaffirmed his commitment to curbing criminal activity in border areas. READ ALSO: NIS elevates 13,977 officers and promises to address border security. Musa claims that the command is strengthening community policing and partnerships with local stakeholders by working with sister security agencies and quasi-security groups.“We encourage all citizens to assist us by promptly reporting any suspicious activity,” he stated. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our NewsLetter.

NIS elevates 13,977 officers and promises to address border security.

The Nigerian Immigration Service has unveiled intentions to use new technology advancements to improve migration management and border security in the nation. In a renewed attempt to improve its operations, the NIS also revealed that it had promoted 13,977 personnel in total since 2024 began. “We acknowledge the challenges of safeguarding our 4,047 km borders with Benin (773 km), Cameroun (1690 km), Chad (87 km), Niger (1497), and the Gulf of Guinea (853 km),” said Kemi Nandap, the Controller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, during his remarks at the 2024 annual General Conference of the NIS in Jos on Friday. “Despite the many obstacles we have faced over the past year, we have made great strides because to our team’s perseverance and commitment. “We’re glad to allow you to understand the continuous changes over the years, such as our most recent operational and administrative reforms that have a significant impact on the following areas: Interagency Synergy, Border Governance, Passport Administration and Control, Visa Regime, Infrastructure Development, ICT Deployment, ECOWAS Heads of Immigration Forum (collaboration), Staff Welfare, and Human Capital Development, which includes the promotion of 13,977 officers in 2024 alone. “It is convenient for me to emphasize that, in the context of the NIS’s legislative responsibilities, we always seek to guarantee a fair balance between security and the facilitation of free movement. “NIS is dedicated to addressing these challenges by utilizing technology, international collaboration, and capacity building.” The head of NIS was hopeful that the conference would provide them another chance to rethink their approach and work together to take the NIS to higher levels. Nigeria can only be safe, productive, and protective if its borders are secure, according to Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. According to Tunji-Ojo, global security is now proactive rather than reactive. To properly safeguard the country’s borders, he urged cooperation and coordination between the Nigeria Immigration Service, Customs Service, and Border Community Development Agency. The Minister stated, “The Immigration Service is an organization for rational thinkers, strategists, and innovators with the correct ideologies; thus, research into new ideas to keep abreast of happenings in the world.” Caleb Mutfwang, the governor of Plateau State, also spoke, expressing worry about the border issues the state has had, with people from neighboring countries occasionally entering without the necessary inspections. In the person of The Governor, Samuel Jatau, the Secretary to the Government of the State, insisted that his administration was dedicated to encouraging more cooperation with the Nigeria Immigration Service and other stakeholders in order to guarantee that every issue that was discovered is resolved. READ ALSO: Jose Castillejo, a former Valencia defender, was one of 158 people killed in Spain’s flash floods. According to our correspondent, the annual conference with the theme “Enhancing Border Security and Migration Management in a Globalized World: Challenges and Opportunities for Nigeria” sought to identify new opportunities and challenges in immigration services and border governance as well as create long-term plans for reorienting the NIS to better serve both national security and economic interests. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our NewLetter.

EFCC recovered over N248bn Crime Proceeds in One Year

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced a significant achievement, reporting the recovery of over N248 billion within the past year. This information was revealed by Wilson Uwajaren, the Director of Public Affairs for the Commission, during a press briefing on Thursday, where he provided an overview of the agency’s recent accomplishments in combating financial crimes. In addition to the impressive monetary recoveries, Uwajaren noted that the EFCC has also managed to recover more than £53,000 and €172,000. He highlighted that €5,000 was specifically recovered for victims of crime based in Spain, illustrating the Commission’s commitment to supporting those impacted by financial wrongdoing. Uwajaren emphasized that the EFCC is enhancing its rapid response strategies, which are expected to lead to a notable reduction in cybercrime activities across the nation. This proactive approach aims to deter potential offenders and bolster public confidence in the Commission’s effectiveness. READ ALSO: Wike: Young People Who Disapprove of Taxi Driving in Nigeria Accept It Abroad Furthermore, he reported that the EFCC has successfully secured over 35 convictions related to the abuse of the Naira by individuals at social events, demonstrating the agency’s determination to tackle financial misconduct in various sectors. To expand its reach and improve operations, Uwajaren announced that three new directorates will be established in the states of Ekiti, Katsina, and Anambra. This strategic expansion is part of the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to enhance its capabilities in fighting economic and financial crimes throughout Nigeria. We Love To Have You Back. Pease kindly Provide Us With Your Email.

VeryDarkMan apologises for using police uniform

Social media influencer Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has issued an apology to the Nigeria Police Force following a viral video in which he donned attire resembling a police uniform and referred to himself as the “CSP of the Online Division.” In a statement and video posted on Instagram on Wednesday, VeryDarkMan shared that he had just left the police station, where he was questioned about the video. Reflecting on the experience, he said it had taught him valuable lessons. He clarified, “I said CSP in my video, meaning Chief Social Media Person, but I understand now that the Nigeria Police has a rank called Chief Superintendent of Police. They also noted that my outfit was similar to their official uniform.”VeryDarkMan emphasized that he had no intention of impersonating the police, extending his sincere apologies to the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector General of Police. “ I didn’t intend to impersonate the police, and I offer my unreserved apologies to the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector General of Police,” he stated.He further urged the public to seek permission before wearing any attire that could resemble law enforcement uniforms. “ READ ALSO I advise everyone to get approval from the police or other law enforcement before wearing anything that might resemble their uniform. While some may use it for good, others could misuse it. It’s safer to seek permission first,” he said. The Nigeria Police Force criticized VeryDarkMan’s unauthorized use of its official attire in the video. In the viral video posted on his social media, he wore a police uniform and introduced himself as CSP VeryDarkMan, calling himself Nigeria’s “top online police officer.” He explained that his role is to expose wrongdoers on social media, especially fraudulent online vendors, bypassing conventional procedures if there is evidence against them. We Love To Have You Back. Pease kindly Provide Us With Your Email.

A man accused of attacking two police officers was arraigned.

Jegede Oluwasina, 39, appeared in an Ado-Ekiti Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday on charges of assaulting two on-duty police officers. The defendant, who does not have a definite address, is facing two counts of assault and breach of peace and is awaiting trial. The defendant and other individuals at large committed the offenses on October 13 at approximately 9:00 am near the Okesha roundabout in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, according to the prosecution, Inspector Raymond Osas, who testified in court. He said that when Akinyemi Olawale and Adewunmi David, two traffic cops assigned to the Okesha Divisional Police Station, Ado-Ekiti, were carrying out their legal duties, they were assaulted by the defendant and other individuals at large. According to the prosecutor, the defendant attacked the complainants after they argued over breaking traffic laws. READ ALSO According to Osas, the defendant carried out oneself in a way that could lead to a breach of the peace. He claims that the offenses violate Ekiti State’s 2021 Laws Sections 187(a), (b), (c), and 181(d). In order to review the file and gather his witnesses, he pleaded with the court to postpone the case. However, the defendant entered a not guilty plea to the case that was brought against him. Mr. Ademola Richard, the defendant’s attorney, pleaded with the court to release the defendant on bond, pledging that he would not violate it. After granting the defendant N20,000 bail with one surety in the same amount, Magistrate Mr. Olatomiwa Daramola postponed the matter to November 18 for a hearing.