A Finnish court has sentenced Simon Ekpa, the self-styled Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, to six years imprisonment after finding him guilty of multiple offences, including terrorism-related crimes, aggravated tax fraud, and violations of the Attorneys Act.
The verdict was delivered by the Päijät-Häme District Court, which ruled that Ekpa’s actions amounted to inciting a public crime with terrorist intent and participating in the activities of a terrorist group.
Court Findings
According to the District Court, between August 2021 and November 2024, Ekpa actively promoted the independence of the Biafra region in southeastern Nigeria by illegal means. Judges noted that he had:
•Used social media platforms to gain political influence and mobilise supporters.
•Encouraged violence by urging his followers to commit crimes in Nigeria.
•Facilitated armed groups, deemed terrorist organisations by the court, by supplying weapons, explosives, and ammunition through his international network of contacts.
In addition to terrorism offences, Ekpa was found guilty of aggravated tax fraud and for violating the provisions of the Attorneys Act in Finland.
Wider Context
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian lawyer and political activist, has been one of the most prominent figures advocating for the secession of Biafra from Nigeria. His activities, particularly on social media, have been linked by Nigerian authorities to violent unrest and attacks carried out by pro-Biafra armed groups.
The Finnish court’s ruling marks one of the most significant international legal actions against him to date, reflecting growing concern over the cross-border dimensions of terrorism financing, incitement, and armed separatist movements.
Next Steps
While Ekpa retains the right to appeal, the District Court’s judgment sends a clear signal about the legal and political consequences of using foreign jurisdictions as bases for inciting violent separatism abroad.
His sentencing is expected to draw strong reactions both in Nigeria, where his activities have been a subject of national security concern, and among the Biafra diaspora, who have supported his movement.
