Simon Ekpa Charged with Terrorism in Finland Over Biafra Separatist Activities

Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile and a Finnish-Nigerian dual citizen, has been charged by Finnish prosecutors with inciting terrorism.

The charges stem from his alleged public calls for violent actions to promote Biafra’s independence from Nigeria, with incidents occurring in Lahti between 2021 and 2024.

Finland’s National Prosecution Authority revealed that Ekpa faces accusations of “public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent and participation in terrorist group activities.” Arrested in November 2024, Ekpa remains in custody and denies all allegations. Four others arrested alongside him on suspicion of financing terrorism have since had charges dropped.

Ekpa’s notoriety arises from his leadership role in the Indigenous People of Biafra movement, which seeks secession for Nigeria’s southeastern region, historically marked by the brutal Biafran civil war. Beyond activism, Ekpa has been active in Finnish politics, serving on a local committee in Lahti for the National Coalition Party.

The trial is set for May 2025, with Finnish authorities continuing investigations and emphasizing adherence to anti-terrorism legislation while safeguarding legal rights.