Crime

Legal Experts Warn Donors to Simon Ekpa Could Face Terrorism Charges

Published by Tope Fakinlede on November 24th, 2024.

Legal Experts Warn Donors to Simon Ekpa Could Face Terrorism Charges

Legal professionals have raised concerns that individuals who contribute funds to Simon Ekpa may be charged with terrorism.

Despite Ekpa’s detention by Finnish authorities, some supporters of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) continue to encourage donations. In a recent video shared on X, a woman identified as Ada Biafra, speaking on behalf of the outlawed group, assured viewers that Ekpa would return soon. She also explained in the live broadcast that the donations were meant to “buy groundnuts (bullets)” for the group’s fighters, claiming that “no groundnut that goes out comes back in.”

An X user, @kingchuks01, remarked, “Whether they like it or not, we will keep pushing for Biafra’s freedom.” In response, another user, @Chrismo80164240, criticized the donation call, questioning the legitimacy of the fundraising and asking, “What exactly are you donating for?”

Further posts also criticized Ekpa’s actions, with one user, @realdonpri, suggesting that Ekpa should experience the hardships faced by those in southeastern Nigeria. Another commenter, @nwaEleberi, called Ekpa a “fraudster” and accused him of exploiting followers for personal gain.

Legal experts weigh in on the matter, warning that any financial support for Ekpa’s activities could lead to criminal charges. Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kunle Edun, explained that financing terrorism is illegal under Nigerian law and can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty if the support leads to a death. He emphasized that if evidence shows donors were aware or should have been aware that their contributions supported terrorist activities, they could face prosecution.

Ayo Ademiluyi, another legal expert, added that since IPOB has been designated a terrorist group, any financial support directed towards it would be considered as aiding terrorism. Eze Onyekpere, a third legal professional, compared the situation to funding groups like Boko Haram, underscoring the seriousness of supporting banned organizations.

Okechukwu Nwanguma, the Executive Director of the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre, urged the government to pursue peaceful dialogue with Southeast leaders to address regional unrest and promote stability.