By John Umeh
Simon Ekpa’s Legal Troubles Deepen as Finnish Prosecutors Seek Six-Year Term
Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-born Finnish citizen and prominent pro-Biafra separatist, is facing intensified legal challenges as Finnish prosecutors have called for a six-year prison sentence over terrorism-related charges. The trial, currently underway at the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, centers on allegations that Ekpa incited violence in Nigeria’s southeastern region through online broadcasts and social media activities.
Charges and Allegations
Ekpa is accused of participating in a terrorist organization and publicly inciting crimes for terrorist purposes. Prosecutors allege that he has been actively involved in a separatist movement seeking independence for the so-called Biafra region in southeastern Nigeria. The prosecution argues that the activity, conducted online and coordinated from Finland, may constitute terrorism under Finnish law.
In addition to the terrorism-related charges, Ekpa is also under investigation for aggravated tax fraud and suspicions of attempting to procure weapons for pro-Biafra groups. Investigators believe these activities could be linked to a broader campaign of incitement and violence in Nigeria’s South-East, where separatist unrest has been on the rise.
Defense and Legal Proceedings
Ekpa has denied all charges through his legal counsel, Kaarle Gummerus, questioning the credibility of evidence sourced from Nigerian authorities. The defense has raised concerns about the reliability of information coming from Nigeria, emphasizing the challenges in obtaining detailed information about the alleged terrorism-related acts believed to have taken place in Africa.
The trial has garnered significant attention, with Finnish authorities collaborating with Nigerian security agencies to investigate the case. Ekpa, who refers to himself as the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, has drawn attention for using social media platforms to advance the separatist cause. His online posts are alleged to have contributed to escalating violence in the region.
Background and Implications
Born in Ohaukwu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, in 1985, Ekpa moved to Finland in 2007. He has been a member of the National Coalition Party (NCP) and served on Lahti’s public transport board. In 2022, while in Finland, he declared the activation of the Biafra Government In Exile (BGIE), and in 2023 declared himself the leader (titled “Prime Minister”) of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE).
The outcome of the trial could have far-reaching implications, both for diaspora-based activists involved in homeland conflicts and for international legal cooperation in terrorism cases. If convicted, Ekpa could face a sentence of up to six years behind bars under Finnish law.
The next phase of the trial is expected to involve a deeper review of the evidence and witness testimonies. The case continues to be closely followed by both Finnish and Nigerian authorities, as well as international observers concerned with issues of separatism, terrorism, and international law.
