Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafran agitator arrested in Finland for alleged terrorism-related activities, is set to potentially face charges by May 2025, Finnish authorities have confirmed. Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, was apprehended alongside four others for alleged incitement to violence and financing terrorism, particularly in Nigeria’s South-East region.
Case Developments and Arrest Details
Mikko Laaksonen, Senior Detective Superintendent at Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), confirmed to FRONTPAGE that the Päijät-Häme District Court had set May 2025 as the deadline for prosecutors to file charges. Finnish police stated that Ekpa, who describes himself as the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, allegedly used social media to promote violence targeting civilians and authorities.
Ekpa was previously remanded by the district court on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. Investigations into the case, which date back to 2021, involve significant cross-border cooperation. However, officials have refrained from providing specific details about the extent of international collaboration.
Ekpa’s Influence and Controversy
Ekpa has been linked to violent enforcement of sit-at-home orders in Nigeria’s South-East, actions that reportedly resulted in devastating economic losses of over ₦4 trillion in two years. His social media presence, now inactive for over a week, has been a central tool in his activities, including calls for boycotts of Nigeria’s 2023 elections.
The arrest has prompted global petitions from Nigerians urging Finland, the EU, and Nigeria to act against Ekpa’s activities. Nigerian authorities, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, welcomed his detention as a critical step toward mitigating the influence of transnational actors on the nation’s security.
Local and International Reactions
Nigerian Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe commended the arrest, expressing hope it would deter further violence in the South-East. Abaribe criticized Ekpa and his followers for hijacking the peaceful ideals of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to perpetrate violence and criminality.
The legal counsel for IPOB, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, also dismissed rumors of a planned Biafran declaration on December 2, urging peace and unity in the region. Ejiofor described Ekpa as a “serial fraudster,” cautioning residents against supporting divisive narratives and emphasizing that true liberation can only be achieved through lawful and peaceful means.
Broader Implications
Ekpa’s arrest is seen as a significant milestone in addressing separatist-linked violence and unrest in Nigeria. Finnish authorities, while maintaining discretion, have signaled their commitment to transparency and justice. The Nigerian government continues to monitor the proceedings closely, with expectations that the case will set a precedent for addressing transnational threats.
The global spotlight remains on the outcome of the legal process, reflecting the complexities of navigating political agitation, international jurisdiction, and efforts to maintain peace and security in the affected regions.
