Pro-Biafra separatist agitator, Simon Ekpa, who was arrested in Finland in late 2024 on allegations linked to terrorism, is expected to appear before a Finnish court in June 2025.
Ekpa, known for his vocal advocacy for the secession of Biafra from Nigeria, faces grave charges including incitement to violence and financing terrorism. He has also been accused of using digital platforms to propagate violent messages that allegedly encouraged attacks on civilians and security forces in Nigeria’s South-East region.
His arrest, along with four others, was announced by Finnish authorities in November 2024. Officials stated that the group was under investigation for suspected involvement in terrorism-related offenses.
The Päijät-Häme District Court subsequently ordered that Ekpa be remanded in custody. Local Finnish news outlet, Yle, reported that he was charged with public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
In response to the charges, Finnish authorities have placed Ekpa under strict sanctions, freezing his financial assets and economic resources. The sanctions also affect 16 other individuals believed to be connected to terrorism financing and support networks.
Ekpa, who styles himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, initially had legal representation from Finnish lawyer Ilkka Kopra. However, he has since appointed a new attorney, Kaarle Gummerus.
Speaking to BBC Pidgin, Gummerus confirmed that he has received the pre-trial documentation and is currently reviewing the case. “We’ve received the case file and will analyze it to determine our next course of action,” he said. When asked about the court date, Gummerus stated that the trial is set to commence in June 2025.
The case has drawn international attention due to its political implications and the growing concerns over the influence of social media in promoting separatist violence. Finnish authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring due legal process while addressing national and international concerns about extremism and terrorism.
