The Finnish judiciary has set a May 2025 deadline for the potential trial of Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafran agitator accused of engaging in terrorism-related activities. Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian origin, gained notoriety for his controversial activism, including incitement to violence in Nigeria’s South-East region.
Timeline of Events
Ekpa was arrested alongside four others by Finnish authorities on suspicion of terrorism-related offenses, including incitement to violence and financing terrorism. According to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Finland, the District Court of Päijät-Häme remanded him on charges of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.
Speaking with The PUNCH, Senior Detective Superintendent Mikko Laaksonen confirmed that prosecutors have until May 2025 to present formal charges. However, the case remains under active investigation, with authorities withholding further details.
International Implications
Given the transnational nature of the case, Finnish authorities are collaborating with international counterparts. However, specific details of the cooperation remain undisclosed.
Ekpa’s arrest has drawn global attention, especially in light of his prior involvement in encouraging violence during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections. His use of social media to issue sit-at-home orders and incite attacks has been a focal point in the ongoing investigations.
Impact of Ekpa’s Activities
Ekpa, who claims to be the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, is accused of orchestrating campaigns that have caused severe economic and social disruptions in Nigeria’s South-East.
- Economic Toll: Reports indicate that over ₦4 trillion has been lost in the region due to insecurity linked to sit-at-home orders.
- Social Disruption: His rhetoric has fueled unrest, targeting civilians and security forces, further escalating tensions in the region.
Reactions from Key Figures
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South, welcomed Ekpa’s arrest, expressing hope that it would deter others inciting violence under the guise of Biafran activism. He accused Ekpa of exploiting the legitimate quest for an independent Biafran state to perpetrate crimes.
“The arrest of Simon Ekpa is a positive step. His actions deviated from IPOB’s peaceful intentions and turned into criminality,” Abaribe stated.
Similarly, IPOB’s legal counsel Ifeanyi Ejiofor dismissed rumors of a planned Biafran declaration on December 2, calling for peace and unity in the South-East. Ejiofor emphasized that true liberation cannot be achieved through violence, urging followers to reject fraudulent narratives.
The Path Forward
The Nigerian government has pledged to monitor Ekpa’s legal proceedings closely. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described his arrest as a significant milestone in addressing the activities of transnational actors undermining Nigeria’s security.
“Freedom cannot be achieved through violence, fraud, or criminality,” Ejiofor stressed, urging the Igbo community to pursue lawful means for justice and reconciliation.
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