HELSINKI, Finland — Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based pro-Biafra separatist leader, has been arrested and detained by the Päijät-Häme District Court on charges of inciting public crimes with terrorist intent, according to Finnish authorities.
Mr Ekpa, a dual Finnish-Nigerian citizen, was apprehended on Monday, November 19, 2024. The alleged offence reportedly occurred in Lahti on August 23, 2021.
A source close to the investigation confirmed his arrest, noting, “He was arrested three days ago. But this is not the first time. He will likely be questioned and released soon.”
Ekpa was previously detained in 2023 on suspicion of fundraising fraud but was released the same day.
Terrorism-Related Allegations
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation, NBI, stated that Ekpa is under investigation for using social media to coordinate actions that led to violence against civilians and authorities in Nigeria.
Detective Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen said the inquiry focuses on a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, born in the 1980s, suspected of public incitement to crimes with terrorist intent.
Four additional suspects have also been detained in connection with terrorism-related charges, as Finnish authorities expand their investigation.
Ekpa is a prominent figure in the separatist movement advocating for an independent Biafran state in southeastern Nigeria.
Finnish authorities allege that his online activities, including inflammatory broadcasts, incited violence perpetrated by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Nigeria’s Response
The Nigerian government has been engaging Finnish authorities through the European Union (EU) to extradite Ekpa.
In August, Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters emphasised the dual approach of diplomatic engagement and military operations against IPOB and ESN.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated, “The Federal Government would respond appropriately to the Finnish Government through the EU. On the part of the military, troops would sustain operations against IPOB/ESN.”
Political Role in Finland
Ekpa, who has represented Finland’s National Coalition Party (NCP) in local government, serves on Lahti’s public transport committee.
Despite his involvement in Finnish politics, his activities have drawn scrutiny for their alleged links to the separatist movement and associated violence in Nigeria.
Ekpa’s latest arrest is part of his history of legal confrontations in Finland. His previous detention on suspicion of fundraising fraud in 2023 highlighted concerns about his role in mobilising resources for IPOB and ESN.
Finnish authorities have reiterated their commitment to thoroughly investigate Ekpa’s activities and their potential impact on Nigerian security.
As the investigation continues, Finnish authorities are expected to examine the extent of Ekpa’s influence on violent actions in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, his detention underscores the international dimensions of Nigeria’s efforts to counter the IPOB movement and its leadership abroad.
