- Defence Headquarters declares 97 individuals wanted, including Simon Ekpa of IPOB, for involvement in violent crimes nationwide
- Maj. Gen. Edward Buba confirms identities and images of wanted persons, focusing on individuals linked to terrorism and insurgency
The Defence Headquarters has announced the declaration of 97 individuals as wanted, encompassing terrorists, insurgents, and other perpetrators of violent crimes across the nation.
Among those sought after is Simon Ekpa, a factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the identities and images of the wanted individuals on Friday.
This declaration follows previous reports indicating the military’s intention to designate certain individuals as wanted for their involvement in terrorist activities. Unlike previous instances where bounties were offered for information leading to the arrest of wanted individuals, no such incentives were mentioned this time.
The list of wanted persons includes individuals associated with banditry in the North West, insurgency in the North East, and violent criminal activities in the South-East and North Central regions.
In the North West, which has been plagued by banditry, 43 individuals have been declared wanted, including Alhaji Shingi, Malindi Yakubu, and Boka.
Similarly, the North East, terrorized by Boko Haram and Islamic State for West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents, has 33 wanted individuals, such as Abu Zaida and Modu Sulum.
Additionally, 21 insurgents and violent criminals have been identified in the South-East and North Central areas. Notable among them are Chika Edoziem, Zuma, and Simon Ekpa.
The declaration underscores the military’s commitment to combatting terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. It calls for collective efforts to apprehend the wanted individuals and bring them to justice, contributing to the restoration of peace and stability across the nation.