By Precious Momoh
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian political activist and separatist leader, has been arrested in Finland alongside four others on charges of terror-related activities. Finnish authorities accuse Ekpa of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent and financing terrorism, alleging his role in coordinating violent activities in Nigeria’s South-East region.
The Finnish Central Criminal Police confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects are being investigated for orchestrating terror-related acts, including incitement to violence and funding operations that target civilians and authorities. Detective Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen revealed, “The man has carried out this activity, among other things, on his social media channels.”
Ekpa, who has dual Nigerian and Finnish citizenship, has reportedly used social media platforms to propagate separatist rhetoric and organize activities against the Nigerian government.
Accusations and Previous Incidents
The Päijät-Häme District Court remanded Ekpa in custody following the charges. Finnish police emphasized that Ekpa is suspected of leading actions that have directly contributed to instability in Nigeria’s South-East region. This includes his infamous 2023 declaration that “no elections will be held in Biafran territory,” a sentiment he shared in widely circulated videos.
Finnish police disclosed that two of the additional suspects live in Helsinki and are accused of financing terrorism. Investigators also highlighted Ekpa’s alleged involvement in coordinating activities that caused harm to civilians and authorities, leveraging international networks to expand his influence.
This is not Ekpa’s first encounter with Finnish law enforcement. In 2023, he was briefly detained over allegations of fundraising fraud linked to separatist activities.
International Cooperation in a High-Profile Case
Finnish authorities are collaborating with international agencies to investigate the case comprehensively. “The detention demands are related to a preliminary investigation in which a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, born in the 1980s, is suspected of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent,” the police statement said.
The police pointed out the significance of international cooperation in managing the scope and complexity of this case. The suspects, including Ekpa, are expected to face hearings in the Päijät-Häme District Court as investigations continue.
Ekpa’s controversial activities, including his calls for election boycotts and alleged promotion of violent separatist agendas, have made him a divisive figure. His recent arrest marks a significant step in efforts to curb actions tied to his movements.
