Simon Ekpa, the self-declared Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, appeared before Finland’s Päijät-Häme District Court on Friday for a preparatory hearing related to terrorism charges.
Prosecutors accuse Ekpa of participating in a terrorist organization and inciting crimes intended to support terrorist objectives.
The charges stem from his alleged leadership role in a separatist movement advocating independence for the Biafra region in South-Eastern Nigeria. According to the prosecution, Ekpa coordinated much of this activity online from Finland, which may fall under the definition of terrorism under Finnish law.
State prosecutor Sampsa Hakala stated that authorities have gathered substantial evidence of Ekpa’s digital communications and online involvement. A six-year prison sentence is being sought by the prosecution.
However, the case presents investigative challenges. Prosecutors admit that many alleged acts occurred in Africa, making the collection of detailed evidence more complex. Ekpa’s defense lawyer, Kaarle Gummerus, also questioned the credibility of information provided by Nigerian sources.
Finnish police conducted the investigation in cooperation with Nigerian authorities. During police interviews, Ekpa denied the allegations, which also include suspicions of arms procurement for pro-Biafra groups. Additionally, the court is reviewing charges of aggravated tax fraud.
Originally from Biafra, Ekpa relocated to Finland in 2007 as an athlete. He has previously been active in Finnish politics, serving as a member of the National Coalition Party and holding a position on Lahti’s public transport board.
