Simon Ekpa To Face Terrorism Charges in Finnish Court This June

Pro-Biafran separatist leader Simon Ekpa is set to stand trial in a Finnish court in June 2025 on multiple terrorism-related charges, Finnish authorities have confirmed.

Ekpa, who refers to himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-proclaimed Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, was arrested in November 2024 along with four others. He is facing serious allegations including public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent and financing terrorism.

According to Finnish police, Ekpa allegedly used social media platforms to incite violence in Nigeria’s South-East region, targeting both civilians and government authorities. His online rhetoric and fundraising activities have been under investigation by Finnish law enforcement for months.

The Päijät-Häme District Court remanded Ekpa in custody late last year, and Finnish authorities have since frozen his assets along with those of 16 others suspected to be connected to terror-related operations. The Finnish government cited concerns over national and international security in imposing these sanctions.

Initially represented by lawyer Ilkka Kopra, Ekpa has now retained Kaarle Gummerus as his new legal counsel. Speaking to BBC Pidgin, Gummerus confirmed he had received the pre-trial case file and is preparing for court proceedings.

“We are reviewing the pre-trial documents and will determine our next steps based on the findings,” Gummerus stated. “The court hearing is scheduled for June 2025.”

Ekpa has been a controversial figure in the ongoing agitation for the independence of Biafra, a movement seeking to establish a separate state for the Igbo people in southeastern Nigeria. His rhetoric and influence have drawn criticism and scrutiny both in Nigeria and abroad.

The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for separatist movements and international legal cooperation in tackling terrorism and incitement across borders.