Defense Headquarters Issues Wanted Declaration for Simon Ekpa and 96 Others

The Defence Headquarters announced that a total of 97 individuals, including terrorists, insurgents, and other perpetrators of violent crimes across the country, have been declared wanted. Among those listed is Simon Ekpa, identified as a factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this development on Friday, releasing names and photographs of the wanted persons.

Unlike previous declarations where bounties were placed on wanted individuals, this time, no financial incentives were offered. The list comprises individuals connected to various regions affected by insurgency and criminal activities. In the North West, which has been grappling with banditry, 43 individuals were identified as wanted, including Alhaji Shingi, Malindi Yakubu, and Dogo Gide, among others.

In the North East, where Boko Haram and Islamic State for West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgency persist, 33 individuals were listed as wanted, including Abu Zaida, Modu Sulum, and Baba Data. Additionally, 21 individuals linked to insurgency and violent crimes in the South East and North Central areas were identified, including Chika Edoziem, Zuma, and ThankGod.

The announcement underscores the military’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and insecurity across Nigeria, urging the public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted individuals.