Challenges in Extraditing Simon Ekpa to Nigeria: Vince Onyekwelu Explains the Complexities

The extradition of pro-Biafra agitator Simon Ekpa to Nigeria has been a topic of heated controversy following his recent arrest in Finland. The procedure is technically possible but extremely intricate, says Vince Onyekwelu, a former police officer and strategist for national security risks in the United Kingdom. While extradition is “almost impossible, though not 100% impossible,” Onyekwelu told Arise News that numerous procedural and legal hurdles need to be overcome before this outcome can be achieved....CONTINUE READING>>>

The fact that Finland and Nigeria do not have an extradition treaty is one of the main obstacles. This means that any charges against Ekpa can be brought before the Finnish authorities, who have jurisdiction over his case. According to Onyekwelu, this is a necessary measure to guarantee compliance with Finland’s legal framework regarding due diligence. Further complicating matters is the requirement for a review by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) prior to the approval of any possible extradition.

The charges against Ekpa and his individual rights would be the two most important considerations for the European legal system. According to Onyekwelu, Ekpa needs to face charges in a court of law, including inciting violence and supporting Biafran self-determination. In addition to reviewing the allegations against him, the CJEU would consider whether sending him to Nigeria is in line with European justice and human rights standards.

Human rights concerns could significantly influence the decision. Nigeria’s human rights record, particularly regarding its treatment of political detainees and activists, is expected to be scrutinized. Onyekwelu highlighted this point, saying, “The Chief of Defence Staff should go home, relax, and sleep because they [the Finnish authorities and the CJEU] have to consider the human rights records in Nigeria as a country.”

WHAT HE SAID 

“Professionally speaking, the chances are possible to extradite Simon Ekpa to Nigeria. However, in my opinion, it’s almost impossible, though not 100% impossible, because one, there’s no extradition treaty between Finland and Nigeria. Number two, the Finnish authority has every right to take him to court to answer the charges against him, and that is perfect; that’s due diligence; and afterwards, the CJEU.”

“The Criminal Justice of the European Union also has a right under the European Human Rights to also test if he’s suitable to be extradited to Nigeria based on one, the charges against him, and number two, the fundamentals, because he has to defend himself in a Court of Law. You cannot just bring charges without him answering in response to the reasons why he’s inviting violence, to the fundamental reason why he thinks there’s a reason for him to request self-determination for the People of Biafra.

“The Criminal Court of Justice of the European Union has to check if they believe in self-determination and if they believe in human rights abuses because bringing that man to Nigeria is a great idea, but the Chief of Defence Staff should go home, relax, and sleep because they have to consider the human rights records in Nigeria as a country.”