The Nigerian Defence Headquarters in Abuja has confirmed that Finland will extradite Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian politician and self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to Nigeria to face terrorism-related charges.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, announced the development, emphasizing that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, is encouraged by Ekpa’s ongoing legal proceedings in Finland.
“The CDS is happy with his arrest in Finland, with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition to Nigeria so that he will face justice,” Gusau stated.
Arrest and Allegations
Simon Ekpa was detained by Finland’s Päijät-Häme District Court on suspicion of incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. The alleged incident occurred in Lahti on August 23, 2021. Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is also pursuing the detention of four additional individuals on terrorism-related charges.
Ekpa, who holds a local political role with Finland’s National Coalition Party (NCP), is accused of using his position as a leader in a Nigerian separatist group to incite and coordinate violence against civilians and authorities in southeastern Nigeria. The NBI has pointed to the use of social media platforms to spread messages allegedly promoting these actions.
Detective Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen noted: “This activity has been carried out, among other means, via social media channels.”
The NBI suspects Ekpa and his associates of crimes including the financing of terrorism. Ekpa resides in Lahti, while two other suspects are based in Helsinki, and one has no registered address in Finland.
A History of Controversy
Simon Ekpa’s separatist activism has garnered international attention. In 2023, he was detained by Finnish authorities over alleged fundraising fraud but was released shortly thereafter. He is notorious for his calls to disrupt Nigerian elections and justify violent actions.
“No elections will be held! Nigerian elections will not be allowed in Biafran territory in 2023,” Ekpa proclaimed in a social media video. He has also defended violence against Nigerian government forces, describing it as self-defense against alleged war crimes.
“We have no choice but to defend ourselves,” Ekpa declared in another online statement.
Political Implications
Ekpa’s association with the National Coalition Party has prompted scrutiny. While the NCP’s Secretary Timo Elo declined to confirm Ekpa’s membership, he stated that terrorism-related allegations would likely result in expulsion from the party.
Ekpa’s role on Lahti’s public transport committee is also under review, with decisions expected at the local level.
Next Steps
As Ekpa remains in detention in Finland, the process for his extradition to Nigeria is underway. Both nations are working closely to address the allegations and ensure justice is served.
