Simon Ekpa Appears in Finnish Court Over Terrorism Charges Linked to Biafra Agitation
Simon Ekpa, a prominent Nigerian separatist leader and dual citizen of Finland and Nigeria, appeared before the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland on Friday, May 30, as his trial on terrorism charges officially commenced.
Ekpa, who is affiliated with a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), faces serious allegations from the Finnish government, including incitement to violence, terrorism financing, and promoting unrest in Nigeria’s South-East region.
He was arrested in November 2024 following a lengthy investigation into his alleged use of social media platforms to incite violence as part of his campaign for the secession of Biafra from Nigeria.
Prosecutors Demand Six-Year Sentence
According to Finnish state prosecutor Sampsa Hakala, a six-year prison sentence is being sought, citing substantial evidence gathered from Ekpa’s online activity and communications.
“We have a great deal of evidence regarding this individual’s online activity and communications,” Hakala stated during the trial proceedings.
Ekpa, during interrogation, denied all allegations, including accusations of ordering weapons for pro-Biafra groups.
Political and Social Influence
Apart from his activism, Simon Ekpa previously held a local political role in Finland as a member of the National Coalition Party and served on the Lahti city public transport committee.
His activism for Biafra has drawn international attention, particularly because of his inflammatory broadcasts and social media posts, which Nigerian authorities link to violence and instability in the South-East.
The region remains sensitive due to its history of civil war between 1967 and 1970, following an earlier failed attempt to secede as the Republic of Biafra.
What’s Next?
The trial is expected to continue over the coming weeks, with public interest high both in Nigeria and Finland. Legal analysts believe the case could set a precedent on how European countries handle alleged terror-linked activities carried out abroad by their citizens.