Legal experts have affirmed that individuals contributing funds to Simon Ekpa can be prosecuted for terrorism under Nigerian law. Despite his detention by Finnish authorities, some members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) continue soliciting donations for his cause.
A video shared on X by a user claiming to be the group’s “Minister of Information” appealed for contributions to fund activities, including purchasing ammunition.
Reactions on social media were mixed, with some supporting the campaign while others condemned it as fraudulent or harmful to Southeastern Nigeria. Critics noted that Ekpa’s actions had caused significant hardship, particularly with the enforcement of sit-at-home orders in the region.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria Kunle Edun explained that financing terrorism is explicitly prohibited under Nigerian law. He referred to sections of the Terrorism Prevention Act, which prescribe severe penalties for those found guilty, including life imprisonment or the death penalty if fatalities result from such acts. Edun stressed the need for thorough investigations to establish intent and knowledge of the activities being funded.
Legal practitioner Ayo Ademiluyi emphasized that funding IPOB or its affiliates constitutes support for terrorism since the organization has been proscribed. Similarly, Eze Onyekpere likened the act to financing Boko Haram or bandits, reiterating that such actions directly support terrorism.
Okechukwu Nwanguma, the Executive Director of the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre, urged the federal government to engage in constructive dialogue with community and youth leaders to address the root causes of unrest in the Southeast and restore peace.
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