Simon Ekpa, a prominent figure in the separatist movement advocating for an independent Biafra, was arrested in Finland along with four others for terror-related activities. Finnish authorities allege that Ekpa and his associates are involved in public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent and the financing of terrorism, with activities coordinated from Finland.
Ekpa, a dual Finnish-Nigerian citizen, is accused of promoting violence against civilians and authorities in Nigeria’s Southeast region. Finnish police have stated that his operations included social media campaigns inciting violence.
The Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria, Major General Christopher Musa, expressed satisfaction with the arrest and hopes for Ekpa’s extradition to face justice in Nigeria. Ekpa has been linked to the enforcement of “sit-at-home” orders in Southeast Nigeria and the activities of unknown gunmen responsible for violence in the region.
The Finnish authorities confirmed that the arrests were part of international cooperation to address terrorism. The Nigerian government has yet to make a formal statement on extradition plans, as the matter awaits further diplomatic and legal processes.
