The Traffic

Shocking MFG Freezes Simon Ekpa’s Assets, Names Him a Terrorism Financier

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic twist that has set the political and financial landscape on fire, the Federal Government has taken a bold step by declaring Biafran agitator Simon Ekpa and 16 others as terrorism financiers. This development, which came through the Nigeria Sanctions Committee, has resulted in the immediate freezing of their assets, leaving many wondering about the implications of this unprecedented crackdown.

Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of the Biafran movement, has long been a controversial figure, often making headlines for his separatist rhetoric. However, with this new designation, the Nigerian government is sending a clear message that it is taking no chances with individuals and entities accused of funding terrorism.

Who’s on the List?

Simon Ekpa is not alone in this latest government action. The list of designated individuals includes:

Godstime Promise Iyare

Francis Mmaduabuchi

John Onwumere

Chikwuka Eze

Edwin Chukwuedo

Chinwendu Owoh

Ginika Orji

Awo Uchechukwu

Mercy Ebere Ifeoma Ali

Also listed are:

Ohagwu Juliana

Eze Okpoto

Nwaobi Chimezie

Ogomu Kewe

In addition to these individuals, several companies have also been implicated, including:

Igwe Ka Ala Enterprises

Seficuvi Global Company

Lakurawa Group

Government’s Swift Action

The decision was approved by the President upon the recommendation of the Attorney General of the Federation, following a high-level meeting of the Nigeria Sanctions Committee on March 6, 2024.

According to an official document, the government has now mandated all financial institutions to:

✅ Immediately freeze all funds, assets, and economic resources of the listed individuals and entities without prior notice.
✅ Report all frozen assets to the Nigeria Sanctions Committee for further investigation.
✅ File Suspicious Transactions Reports (STRs) with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) for further financial scrutiny.
✅ Monitor and report all financial transactions linked to the designated individuals and businesses.

Assets Seized – No Escape for Terrorism Financiers

Authorities have wasted no time in enforcing these measures. The financial crackdown extends beyond personal accounts to include corporate accounts, payment platforms, and even financial instruments linked to company directors and signatories.

Sources within the financial sector describe this as one of the most aggressive financial crackdowns in Nigeria’s history, targeting individuals believed to be funneling money into terrorist activities. Experts believe this move is designed to choke off funding channels and weaken any groups reliant on these financial backers.

What’s Next for Simon Ekpa & Others?

With their financial lifelines cut off, Ekpa and his co-accused now face major restrictions on their activities. Legal experts warn that any attempt to bypass these sanctions could lead to further legal action, including arrests and possible prosecutions under Nigeria’s anti-terrorism laws.

While Ekpa and the others have yet to respond publicly, analysts predict that this move could trigger a series of legal battles and international reactions. Some believe Ekpa’s foreign ties may bring diplomatic pressure, while others argue this could escalate tensions between the Nigerian government and separatist groups.

The big question remains: Will this financial freeze cripple their alleged operations, or will it fuel further controversy?

Stay tuned as we bring you the latest developments on this explosive story!