Nigerian-born political activist Simon Ekpa appeared before a Finnish court this week as his terrorism trial officially began. Finnish prosecutors are seeking a six-year prison sentence against the pro-Biafra figure, accusing him of inciting violence, tax fraud, and involvement in weapons-related offences. The case marks a rare international prosecution involving alleged foreign terrorism activities coordinated online.
Who Is Simon Ekpa?
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian dual national, is a prominent voice in the Biafra separatist movement. He has declared himself the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile (BRGIE), a self-styled government pushing for the independence of southeastern Nigeria.
Ekpa rose to international attention after taking over as a leading figure within a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), known as the “Autopilot” group. He has been accused by Nigerian authorities of coordinating attacks and civil unrest through online platforms, including social media and YouTube.
Terrorism and Related Charges
Finnish prosecutors allege that Ekpa used social media to encourage violence in Nigeria’s Southeast, actions they argue constitute terrorism under Finnish law. The charges include:
- Public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent
- Participation in a terrorist organization
- Aggravated tax fraud
- Violations of Finland’s Attorneys Act
According to the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Ekpa is suspected of ordering weapons for use by separatist militants, as well as raising funds illegally between August 2021 and November 2024. The charges stem from a joint investigation between Finnish and Nigerian authorities following his arrest in Lahti, Finland, in November 2024.
Court Proceedings and Defense Response
The preparatory hearing took place at the Päijät-Häme District Court on May 30, 2025. During the hearing, Ekpa denied all terrorism-related allegations but admitted to a minor tax offense. His defense lawyer challenged the reliability of the evidence, particularly data sourced from Nigerian authorities.
The court is expected to examine both the legal definition of terrorism under Finnish law and the jurisdictional implications of Ekpa’s alleged actions, which took place outside Finland but were coordinated from within the country.
Political Implications and International Reactions
Ekpa’s case has drawn attention in both Finland and Nigeria. Nigerian government officials have accused him of undermining national security and worsening tensions in the country’s southeast. Despite the allegations, Finland has not initiated an extradition process.
In November 2024, shortly after his arrest, the BRGIE convened a meeting in which Ekpa declared the symbolic restoration of Biafra, signaling continued political activity even as legal proceedings unfolded.
Trial Timeline and Next Steps
Ekpa remains in pretrial detention. The court will conduct several hearings in the coming weeks to review submitted evidence, hear witness testimonies, and evaluate the extent of his alleged involvement in the crimes.
The outcome of the case could have broader implications for how democratic countries address alleged cross-border terrorist activities conducted digitally. It also raises questions about international cooperation in law enforcement and the challenges of prosecuting politically sensitive offences.
Ayaba Cho Yet to Appear
Simon Ekpa’s trial occurs alongside increased legal actions against separatist leaders in Europe, including Ayaba Cho Lucas, who leads the Ambazonia Governing Council and the Ambazonia Defence Forces, groups seeking independence from Cameroon.Norwegian authorities arrested Ayaba several months before Ekpa’s detention, but he has not yet appeared in court despite collaborating with Ekpa on regional separatist issues.
