Simon Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian origin and prominent leader in the pro-Biafran separatist movement, is set to stand trial in Finland by May 2025.
This announcement was made by Finnish authorities following his arrest last week alongside four others on suspicion of terrorism-related activities.
Ekpa, who remains in custody at the Päijät-Häme District Court, faces allegations including incitement to violence, terrorism financing, and public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. Senior Detective Superintendent Mikko Laaksonen of Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation confirmed the trial timeline, stating, “The date for bringing up possible charges by the prosecution was set by the district court to May 2025.” Authorities have noted that the case could be re-evaluated within two weeks if required.
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Transnational Investigation and Allegations
Finnish police allege that Ekpa used social media platforms to incite violence in Nigeria’s South-East region, targeting both civilians and security personnel. The investigation has reportedly involved international collaboration, though details of such cross-border efforts remain undisclosed.
Ekpa, a self-proclaimed “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, has been a polarizing figure. His controversial calls to boycott Nigeria’s 2023 general elections were linked to widespread unrest and violence in the South-East. His enforcement of sit-at-home orders, backed by the Eastern Security Network (ESN), caused economic losses exceeding ₦4 trillion, according to reports.
Local Finnish media outlet Yle revealed that Ekpa has been under investigation by Finnish Central Criminal Police since 2021, with his activities allegedly linked to coordinated attacks in Nigeria.
Nigerian and International Reactions
Ekpa’s arrest has been welcomed as a significant step toward addressing instability in Nigeria’s South-East. Nigeria’s Federal Government, through Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, described the arrest as critical in tackling IPOB-related violence and curbing transnational threats to national security.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South, commended the move, stating on Channels Television, “The arrest of Simon Ekpa is very welcome… He has only exploited the Biafran agitation to perpetrate crimes.”
Ifeanyi Ejiofor, counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), also weighed in, urging the public to reject divisive actions and rumors of a planned Biafran declaration on December 2. Ejiofor labeled Ekpa a “serial fraudster” and emphasized the need for peaceful reconciliation.
“True struggles for the liberation of the oppressed must reject violence, fraud, and abuse as strategies,” he said, adding that the South-East must work toward restoring peace and addressing the economic devastation caused by enforced sit-at-home orders.
Next Steps
As Finnish authorities prepare for the trial, they have reiterated their commitment to a fair legal process while addressing the international scope of the case. The arrest and impending trial of Simon Ekpa mark a critical juncture in efforts to combat violence and promote stability in Nigeria’s South-East region.
