A Historic Ruling Out of Finland
On Monday, September 1, 2025, Finland’s Päijät-Häme District Court sentenced Simon Ekpa to six years in jail. Simon Ekpa is a Finnish citizen born in Nigeria and is self-styled as the leader of the “Biafra Republic Government in Exile.” He was found guilty of various offences, including membership in a terror group, incitement to participate in crimes with the intention of terrorism, and aggravated tax evasion.
What Ekpa Was Accused Of
Authorities determined that between August 2021 and November 2024, Ekpa used his huge social media following to stoke violence and tensions in Nigeria’s southeastern region, a region he regards as “Biafra.” The court determined that he was responsible for forming armed groups, equipping them with weapons, bombs, and ammunition via his network of contacts in the region. In addition, he publicly encouraged his followers on X (formerly Twitter) to engage in crimes within Nigeria.
Apart from terrorism-related offences, the Finnish court also convicted Ekpa of aggravated tax fraud, another despicable part of the verdict. The verdict is not conclusive, and Ekpa has the right to appeal in a superior court.
Government Responses
The Nigerian Federal Government received the decision, which they referred to as a “watershed moment.” Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris applauded Finland for the move as an affirmation of Nigeria’s stance and a powerful message to extremist elements. He also restated the Tinubu administration’s assertion that it would use all means available to it—diplomatic, military, and legal to protect the unity and territorial integrity of Nigeria.
Who is Simon Ekpa?
Background & Activism: Ekpa was born in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, in 1985. He later relocated to Lahti, Finland, in 2007. He was previously renowned as an athlete before turning into an activist, declaring himself as the “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE).
Separatist Activities: Ekpa led a group known as “Autopilot” following his split with IPOB and his formation of several militant groups, including the Biafra Liberation Army (BLA). He is also reputed to have directed sit-at-home directives, caused unrest, and collaborated across borders, signing his name to a pact with Ambazonian separatists.
Legal Proceedings: Arrested in November 2024 by Finnish police for alleged terrorism, Ekpa has remained in custody ever since. His trial, which began in late May 2025, was a total of 12 sessions between May 30 and June 25, concluding with the sentencing issued on September 1.
Why This Matters
Justice Beyond Borders: This ruling underscores the potential for local courts to impose duties on foreigners regarding transnational terrorism-related crimes—a significant precedent in global justice.
Ramifications for Nigeria: The narrative of Ekpa’s conviction will likely resonate across Nigeria’s southeast, which has experienced widespread disruption and tension through his sit-at-home orders and demands for separatism.
Diplomatic Alignment: The Finnish ruling aligns with Nigeria’s diplomatic position and emphasises international consensus against separatist terrorism-even when it is initiated abroad.
Way Forward for Ekpa
Process of Appeal: Simon Ekpa will probably appeal the judgment in a higher court. The decision in such an appeal may further shape the political and legal debate regarding cross-border activism.
Regional Stability: Nigerian security forces could react by increasing monitoring of pro-Biafra groups, while people impacted by Ekpa’s mobilisation will be following events closely.
Global Precedent: The case can serve as an inspiration for legal frameworks in other nations seeking to prosecute individuals who orchestrate violence elsewhere from their homeland countries.
Simon Ekpa’s six-year incarceration is a turning point in attempts to stem violent secessionist militancy. Along with personal responsibility, it is a precursor to an even larger transformation, where international and domestic judicial systems are coming together to suppress threats against peace and national integrity.
