Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafran agitator, has been arrested in Finland amid allegations of terrorism-related activities. The Finnish authorities have confirmed that he will face a court hearing in May 2025, where prosecutors are expected to present charges against him. Ekpa, dubbed the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, and four others were detained based on suspicions of activities related to inciting violence and financing terrorism. Authorities have stated that Ekpa allegedly used social media platforms to promote violence, which has contributed to unrest in Nigeria’s South-East region by targeting both civilians and law enforcement.
According to reports from local outlets, Ekpa was placed in custody by the Päijät-Häme District Court after being charged with public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent. The Finnish Central Criminal Police corroborated the arrest and indicated that other suspects were detained for financing terrorist activities. The ongoing investigation has led to limited information being disclosed, as police confirm that the nature and extent of the inquiry encompass international cooperation, although details remain scant for now. Therefore, while the public awaits further information, the district court has already scheduled a deadline for the prosecution to present its case.
The recent arrest has garnered wide international attention, in part due to Ekpa’s previous actions that include calling for the boycott of Nigeria’s 2023 general elections. This incitement resulted in violent enforcement measures against residents in South-East Nigeria, demonstrating the severe consequences of his rhetoric. Ekpa’s call for sit-at-home orders, issued mainly to the Igbo people, provoked violent reactions and intensified insecurity in the region, leading to significant economic losses estimated at over ₦4 trillion in just two years. The prominent role that social media played in circulating these messages of violence has become a focal point in the investigations against him.
In light of Ekpa’s detention, the Nigerian Government has emphasized its intention to monitor the legal proceedings in Finland closely. The spate of violence instigated by Ekpa’s activities has prompted Nigerian officials to advocate for increased collaboration with the Finnish government to curb threats to national security. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs characterized Ekpa’s arrest as a fundamental move in addressing the challenges posed by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and mitigating the influence of transnational actors harassing Nigeria’s peace efforts.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has voiced support for Ekpa’s arrest, perceiving it as a crucial step toward alleviating violence in the South-East region. He criticized Ekpa’s actions and those of his followers for diverting from the peaceful objectives initially intended by IPOB. The senator argued that the agitation for the Biafran cause has been marred by individuals exploiting it for criminal behavior rather than peaceable advocacy. He emphasized the original intent of IPOB as a legitimate movement seeking a non-violent referendum while cautioning that recent turbulence is representative of criminal elements rather than a genuine quest for rights.
Legal representatives for IPOB have urged peace and unity, especially in the wake of widespread speculation regarding a possible declaration of the Republic of Biafra. Ifeanyi Ejiofor, counsel for the group, has dismissed rumors of such declarations as baseless, advocating for a movement away from violence in pursuit of justice. Ejiofor has cautioned those misled by Ekpa’s claims, labeling him a “serial fraudster,” and asserting that true liberation cannot be achieved through violent means. Importantly, he highlighted the need to focus on reconciliation and constructive dialogue among the Igbo people to restore peace and address the socio-political marginalization they have faced within Nigeria.
