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Simon Ekpa Busted: Finland Says ‘Yes’ to Nigeria’s Extradition Request

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Simon Ekpa Busted: Finland Says ‘Yes’ to Nigeria’s Extradition Request

Finland Approves Extradition of Simon Ekpa to Nigeria in Landmark Terrorism Case

In a dramatic turn of events that could reshape regional security dynamics and test the bounds of international law, Finnish authorities have approved the extradition of Simon Ekpa, a polarizing Finnish-Nigerian separatist agitator, to Nigeria. The extradition is scheduled to take place on July 15, 2025, following a ruling by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Lahti on April 18, 2025.

Ekpa, who controversially refers to himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, has been at the center of violent separatist rhetoric and activities that have plagued Nigeria’s southeast in recent years. He was arrested in Lahti in November 2024 after an extensive investigation by Finnish authorities into his alleged role in inciting violence from abroad.

Though often mischaracterized in media and political circles as a factional leader within the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), IPOB has publicly and repeatedly disassociated itself from Ekpa and his actions.

“Simon Ekpa runs his own network of criminals and kidnappers, and his actions have nothing to do with the actual Biafran struggle or IPOB’s ideology of non-violence,” an IPOB spokesperson said in a firm rebuttal. “It is dangerous and deceptive to label him as part of IPOB.”

Ekpa leads a fringe group called “Autopilot”, and is allegedly linked to the Biafra Liberation Army (BLA), a shadowy militant outfit accused of deadly attacks, kidnappings, and violent enforcement of “sit-at-home” orders in Nigeria’s southeastern states.

Finnish police have accused him of inciting violence through incendiary online broadcasts, which are believed to have inspired multiple deadly attacks on Nigerian civilians and security personnel. Four other individuals have also been detained in connection with financing and supporting his operations.

The Nigerian government, which has been pursuing his extradition since early 2023, welcomed the Finnish court’s decision as a major diplomatic and legal victory.

“This is a triumph for justice and a stern warning to those who think they can destabilize Nigeria from foreign soil,” a senior official from the Ministry of Defence remarked.

The extradition comes despite Finland’s general reluctance to extradite its citizens outside the European Union. However, officials cited exceptional circumstances and invoked provisions under the Rome Statute, which both Finland and Nigeria have ratified, to facilitate the process. The Finnish government stressed that the decision adhered to both international law and due process.

Upon his return to Nigeria, Ekpa is expected to face multiple charges including terrorism, incitement, conspiracy, and crimes against the state. His prosecution is anticipated to become one of the most closely watched legal cases in modern Nigerian history, with significant scrutiny from both local and international human rights organizations.

As July approaches, all eyes will be on the Nigerian judiciary and the government’s ability to manage the legal and political storm that is likely to follow Ekpa’s extradition and trial.

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Africa Set for Divine Visitation as SCOAN Holds Revival

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Africa Set for Divine Visitation as SCOAN Holds Revival

Johannesburg, South Africa — South Africa is poised for a powerful wind of divine transformation as Johannesburg hosts the highly anticipated Holy Spirit Visitation with Pastor Evelyn Joshua. The event, set to take place on May 16 at the prestigious Expo Centre, is drawing thousands of attendees from across South Africa and beyond, each with a deep yearning for divine intervention, healing, and spiritual renewal.

 


Described by many as a life-changing opportunity for divine encounter, the event is being organized by The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN), led by Pastor Evelyn Joshua, wife of the late Prophet T.B. Joshua. The revival has also been widely described as an avenue for divine restoration and supernatural transformation, resonating strongly with the faithful and spiritually curious alike.

 

Jan Matli, a Johannesburg resident, conveyed his strong belief in the impact the event will have. “We expect spiritual revival in the body of Christ as the Holy Spirit Visitation with Pastor Evelyn Joshua begins on the 16th of May. This revival will reveal God’s hidden power to destroy the deception that the children of God have been fed with. This visitation must bring total deliverance and transformation,” he told The SCOAN’s communications team.
Echoing this hope, Thato Mathibela, another resident, said, “I want to have an unforgettable encounter with God during this revival with Pastor Evelyn Joshua. I want to receive impartation and the baptism of the Holy Spirit.”

Africa Set for Divine Visitation as SCOAN Holds Revival

For many like Norah Dlomo, the event is not only about personal breakthrough but also about the spiritual welfare of families. “I want God to deliver and heal my family. I also want to grow spiritually with the guidance of our mother in the Lord, Pastor Evelyn Joshua,” she shared.
Among those looking forward to the revival is Abigail Fourie, who has a powerful testimony of past healing through The SCOAN. Delivered from a family curse during a visit to The SCOAN in Lagos, Nigeria, in 2006, she now seeks a deeper experience. “Since then, my life has been transformed. Now, I am expecting to be baptized by the Holy Spirit so that I can be all God has created me to be,” she said.

 

The event is attracting not only South Africans but also believers from across the continent. Anthony Victor, a Malawian residing in Johannesburg, shared his testimony of divine intervention. “My wife was barren but after ministering the Morning Water, which I received from a friend, she conceived and bore children for me. The God of Prophet T.B. Joshua is a miracle-working God. I am here to experience more of His blessings,” he said.

 

From the Democratic Republic of Congo, Patrick Isaka testified to the blessings he has already received through The SCOAN. “I have experienced a lot of positive changes through The SCOAN. I have witnessed many good things in my career as an infrastructure consultant. I am here to experience God and maintain the blessings I have received in the past,” he stated.

 

Among the most heartfelt expressions of hope came from Albert Ndhlovu, a South African resident who shared his personal struggles. “My life is messed up and I believe God will restore, renew and redeem me and my family during this revival with Pastor Evelyn Joshua,” he prayed.

 

As of the time of this report, the Gallagher Convention Centre, where attendees are registering for the event, is witnessing a massive influx of people. Crowds are arriving in their thousands, full of joy, hope, and expectation for a divine encounter that many believe will mark a turning point in their lives.
With the Holy Spirit Visitation set to commence on May 16, anticipation is mounting that Johannesburg will witness not just a gathering, but a genuine outpouring of the Holy Spirit that could ripple far beyond the city.
For more news on The SCOAN South Africa Revival, click

https://www.scoan.org/high-expectations-as-scoan-south-africa-revival-draws-near-2/

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Buratai Lauded by Top African Literature Scholar for Honouring Ekwensi

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Buratai Lauded by Top African Literature Scholar for Honouring Ekwensi

 

The posthumous conferment of the inaugural T.Y. Buratai Literary Initiative (TYBLI) Young Adult Literature Award on legendary Nigerian author Cyprian O.D. Ekwensi has drawn international acclaim. One of Africa’s most renowned literary scholars, Prof. Ernest N. Emenyonu, described it as a “historic honour” and a vindication of Ekwensi’s enduring legacy. In a personal letter to Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd), Chairman of the TYBLI and the Tukur & Tukur Foundation, Prof. Emenyonu, emeritus Professor of Africana Studies at the University of Michigan-Flint and Editor of the globally recognised African Literature Today, expressed profound gratitude for the initiative. He praised the recognition of Ekwensi as a timely intervention that will inspire a renewed appreciation of Young Adult Literature (YAL) in Nigeria.

If Cyprian Ekwensi were alive today, he would cherish this award as his most indisputably merited recognition as a Nigerian writer,” Emenyonu stated. “This award is a clear and firm vindication of his pioneering contributions to Young Adult Literature in Nigeria.”

The professor, who has written two seminal books on Ekwensi—Cyprian Ekwensi (1974) and The Essential Ekwensi (1987)—revealed that he is currently editing the late author’s unpublished autobiography, which Ekwensi had entrusted to him shortly before his death in 2007.

“This award has added enormous inspiration and momentum to my work on his autobiography,” Emenyonu noted. Responding with appreciation, Lt. Gen. Buratai (Rtd) expressed humility and joy at the commendation, reiterating his commitment to celebrating icons of Nigerian literature. He said the TYBLI Award aims to highlight and reward authors who have shaped the nation’s literary landscape, particularly in the realm of youth literature. In his letter, Buratai affirmed: “Your words of praise and acknowledgment of the significance of the award in the global literary community encourage the efforts of the Initiative… I look forward to the publication of Ekwensi’s autobiography.” The TYBLI Award, created to honour authors of Young Adult Literature in Nigeria, was launched to elevate the genre’s status and promote literacy among younger generations. Cyprian Ekwensi was recognized as the inaugural recipient in November 2024, cementing his place in Nigeria’s literary hall of fame and energized ongoing efforts to immortalize his work for future generations. Prof. Emenyonu concluded his letter with heartfelt thanks, writing: “Personally, too, the award has added enormous inspiration and momentum to my work now on his autobiography. Thank you, thank you, thank you!” This transatlantic literary exchange marks a historic moment in Nigerian cultural recognition, uniting past and present champions of literature through honour, memory, and continued scholarship.

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Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka and Friends: The About Time Tour Coming to the UK in August 2025

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Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka and Friends: The About Time Tour Coming to the UK in August 2025

Laffmattazz, the electrifying comedy experience that has captured the hearts of audiences across Nigeria, is excited to announce its upcoming UK tour, “The About Time Tour,” featuring the renowned Gbenga Adeyinka and a lineup of four heavyweight comedians. This highly anticipated tour will take place in August 2025, bringing laughter and entertainment to cities across the UK.

Laffmattazz has become a household name in Nigeria, known for its unique blend of comedy, music, and performance. The live shows have consistently sold out, enchanting audiences with their captivating humor and vibrant atmosphere. The About Time Tour promises to deliver an unforgettable experience to UK audiences, showcasing the best of Nigerian comedy.

The tour will kick off in:

– Cambridge: August 22, 2025
– Nottingham: August 23, 2025
– London: August 25, 2025
– Manchester: August 29, 2025

In addition, we are thrilled to announce that SB Live Band will be joining us for two of the cities, adding an extra layer of excitement to the performances.

We are currently in discussions with additional promoters to expand our reach to more cities throughout the UK, ensuring that as many fans as possible can enjoy this spectacular show.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this incredible tour! Tickets will be available soon, and we encourage everyone to stay tuned for further announcements.

For media inquiries, please contact:

– M-One Events: +44 7787 427862
– DNC Promotions: +44 7412 368190
– First Events: +234 7030011111
– Kinshow Promotions: +44 7877 587857
– oluBADAN: +44 7706 655327

 

About Laffmattazz:
Laffmattazz is a premier comedy platform in Nigeria that brings together top comedians for an extraordinary entertainment experience. Founded by Gbenga Adeyinka, Laffmattazz has consistently provided laughter and joy to audiences through its innovative shows and events.

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