The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has declared 97 individuals wanted across various regions of Nigeria. Among the list of wanted individuals is Simon Ekpa, a factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), believed to be orchestrating insecurity in the South-east region from his base in Finland.

The DHQ’s declaration comes as part of efforts to combat insurgency and violent crimes prevalent in different zones of the country. In the North-west, where banditry remains a pressing concern, 43 individuals have been marked as wanted. Notable among them are Alhaji Shingi, Malindi Yakubu, and Boka, among others.

Similarly, in the North-east, where Boko Haram and Islamic State for West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists operate, 33 individuals have been declared wanted. The list includes figures such as Abu Zaida, Modu Sulum, and Baba Data, among others.

In the North-central and South-east regions, a total of 21 individuals have been identified as wanted for their involvement in insurgency and violent crimes. Simon Ekpa leads this list, accompanied by individuals like Chika Edoziem, Egede, and Zuma, among others.

Edward Buba, the spokesperson for the defence headquarters, confirmed the names and images of the wanted persons to journalists. Notably, unlike previous declarations, no bounty has been placed on these individuals at this time.

This declaration underscores the Nigerian military’s commitment to addressing security challenges and restoring peace and stability across the nation. It marks a concerted effort to apprehend those responsible for perpetrating acts of terrorism and violence, thereby safeguarding the lives and property of citizens.