- Governor Peter Mbah condemned Simon Ekpa, calling him a businessman exploiting Igbo suffering and urging Southeast residents to ignore his threats
- Mbah criticized the Finnish government for harbouring Ekpa, emphasizing the need for security and urging action against those inciting violence
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has condemned Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based leader of the Autopilot group, describing him as a businessman exploiting the emotions and sufferings of the Igbo people. Mbah urged residents of the Southeast region to disregard Ekpa’s threats and sit-at-home orders.
Speaking during a House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence visit to inspect the construction of the Department of State Service (DSS) Training Institute at Awgu, Mbah expressed frustration with the Finnish government’s continued harbouring of Ekpa. He criticized Ekpa for allegedly causing harm and damage to his followers while living peacefully in Finland.
Mbah stated, “This megalomaniac, ironically residing with his family peacefully in Finland, encourages anarchy in Nigeria and incites our youths towards self-destruction. He pretends to fight for Igbo interests but only exploits their suffering for personal gain. He thrives on creating a siege atmosphere and living from it.”
He called on the people of Enugu to ignore Ekpa’s threats, affirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring security and resisting intimidation. Mbah emphasized, “We cannot submit to the siege atmosphere he wants to create. We value our hard work and cannot let someone jeopardize our existence for personal gain and cheap publicity.”
Mbah also urged the Finnish government to reconsider Ekpa’s residency and take steps to repatriate him for justice. He expressed hope that the House Committee would address the issue.
Earlier, Hon. Ahmed Satomi, Chairman of the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, praised Mbah as a model for security and good governance in other states.