A Finland district court in Lahti has ordered the imprisonment of Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), for allegedly inciting acts of terrorism in Nigeria.
The court accused Ekpa of using social media to spread separatist propaganda tied to IPOB’s secessionist agenda for southeastern Nigeria.
According to the court, Ekpa’s offences trace back to August 23, 2021.
Authorities allege that Ekpa’s actions promoted violence against civilians and law enforcement in southeastern Nigeria.
Crime commissioner Otto Hiltunen of the Central Criminal Police explained, “The police suspect that the man has promoted his efforts from Finland with means that have led to violence against civilians and authorities as well as other crimes in the region of southeastern Nigeria.”
Ekpa’s activities have long drawn attention from Finnish and Nigerian authorities.
In February 2023, he was arrested in a private apartment in Lahti over suspicions of financial crimes linked to the collection of funds through questionable means.
Though he was released after questioning, police investigations revealed reports of his consistent use of social media to incite unrest.
The investigation into his financial activities included accusations of raising money unlawfully to support IPOB’s operations.
Four other individuals, also arrested in Lahti, are accused of financing terrorist activities.
The suspects, reportedly of foreign backgrounds and born in the 1960s and 1970s, allegedly committed their crimes in August 2022.
The Finnish authorities highlighted the importance of international cooperation in this investigation.
Reports confirm that the suspects were apprehended during the first week of the inquiry.
Simon Ekpa is a notable figure in Finland, where he previously served as a local politician affiliated with the National Coalition Party.
He represented the party as a deputy councilor and was a member of the public transport board in Lahti.
However, from his residence in Finland, Ekpa has consistently used social media to call for boycotts of Nigerian elections and champion Biafra’s independence.
These activities have fueled tensions and led to his growing notoriety in Nigeria and abroad.
Ekpa’s arrest has sparked mixed reactions in Nigeria.
Supporters of IPOB describe the actions of the Finnish authorities as politically motivated.
A supporter, who spoke anonymously, said, “This is a calculated attempt to silence the voice of Biafra. Simon Ekpa is only fighting for the freedom of his people.”
However, critics argue that Ekpa’s incitement has caused more harm than good in southeastern Nigeria.
An Enugu-based trader, Mr. Chukwuemeka Okeke, lamented, “This man’s words have only brought violence and pain to our communities. He hides in Finland while we suffer the consequences.”
The activities of IPOB and its offshoot, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), have been linked to rising insecurity in southeastern Nigeria.
From attacks on police stations to the enforcement of sit-at-home orders, the region has faced significant disruptions.
Residents often complain of being caught in the crossfire between IPOB members and security forces.
A market vendor in Aba, Mrs. Nkechi Okezie, said, “We are tired of this endless violence. It is our livelihoods and families that suffer.”
The Finnish authorities emphasize their commitment to ensuring justice and addressing any illegal activities carried out within their jurisdiction.
“We take these matters seriously, especially when international crimes are linked to individuals residing in Finland,” stated a representative of the Finnish police.
Ekpa’s trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks, with international attention focused on the outcome.
As the case unfolds, Simon Ekpa remains a polarizing figure.
While some view him as a freedom fighter, others blame him for escalating violence and division in Nigeria.
The trial in Finland could mark a turning point in addressing international support for separatist movements.
