The Defence Headquarters has officially announced the designation of Simon Ekpa and 96 other individuals as wanted for their alleged involvement in various criminal activities.
Among the wanted individuals are suspected terrorists and insurgents believed to be responsible for perpetrating violent crimes across the country.
Notably, Simon Ekpa, identified as a factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is included in the list released by Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, on Friday.
This declaration comes following an exclusive report by our correspondent last week, revealing the military’s intentions to label certain individuals as wanted for their alleged ties to terrorist activities.
Unlike previous instances where bounties were offered for information leading to the arrest of wanted individuals, this time, no such incentives have been announced for the 97 persons declared wanted.
The list encompasses individuals from various regions, reflecting the widespread nature of security challenges facing the nation.
In the North West, which has been heavily impacted by banditry, 43 individuals have been identified as wanted, including notorious figures like Alhaji Shingi, Malindi Yakubu, and Boka, among others.
Meanwhile, in the North East, where Boko Haram and Islamic State for West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists operate, 33 individuals have been designated as wanted.
Some of these individuals include Abu Zaida, Modu Sulum, and Baba Data.
Additionally, 21 individuals involved in insurgency and violent crimes in the South-East and North Central regions have been listed as wanted. Notable names among them include Chika Edoziem, Egede, and Zuma.
The decision to designate these individuals as wanted underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are addressing the issue of terrorism and insurgency in the country.
By making their names and images public, the Defence Headquarters aims to seek the cooperation of citizens in apprehending these suspects and restoring peace and security to affected areas.
