Finnish authorities have formally charged Simon Ekpa, a dual citizen of Nigeria and Finland, with inciting terrorism and participating in the activities of a terrorist group.
The charges stem from alleged offences committed between 2021 and 2024 in Lahti, Finland, where Ekpa resides. He is accused of using social media platforms to disseminate separatist propaganda and incite violence in Nigeria’s South-East region.
Ekpa, who identifies as the leader of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, was detained in November 2024 and remains in custody. Finnish prosecutors allege that his online activities contributed to unrest and violence in Nigeria, including the enforcement of sit-at-home orders that disrupted daily life and economic activities in the region.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation has also frozen Ekpa’s assets and those of associated entities as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Nigerian government has welcomed the charges, viewing them as a step toward addressing the security challenges in the South-East. However, it remains unclear whether Finland will agree to Nigeria’s request for Ekpa’s extradition.
The case has sparked discussions on the responsibilities of diaspora activists and the role of social media in transnational conflicts.
Ekpa’s trial is scheduled to commence in May 2025. He has denied the charges and appointed a new legal counsel to represent him in the proceedings.
The outcome of the trial is expected to have significant implications for international cooperation in combating terrorism and the regulation of online platforms used to incite violence.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
