FG Monitoring Ekpa’s Trial in Finland

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has disclosed that it is closely observing the ongoing trial of Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen and a leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Ekpa was arrested in Finland on Thursday, on charges of inciting terrorism and promoting violence.

A Finnish court, the Päijät-Häme District Court, has ordered Ekpa’s detention on probable cause, citing his alleged role in inciting violence through social media platforms. Finnish authorities acted following months of diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and Finland, with Nigeria pushing for action against Ekpa’s activities, which have been linked to violent incidents in the South-East region of the country.

In a statement issued on Friday, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described Ekpa’s arrest as a “significant development” in countering IPOB’s activities and addressing the role of transnational actors in Nigeria’s national security challenges.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to confirm the arrest of Mr Simon Njoku Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen and prominent leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by Finnish authorities on Thursday, November 21, 2024,” the statement read.

The ministry noted that Ekpa’s arrest underscores Finland’s commitment to upholding its laws and tackling activities that undermine the peace and security of nations.

“He was charged with inciting terrorism and promoting violence. The Finnish District Court of Päijät-Häme ruled to detain him on probable cause for publicly inciting crimes with terrorist intent. This is a significant development in addressing the activities of IPOB and neutralising the influence of transnational actors and their impact on our national security.”

The Federal Government further assured Nigerians that it will continue to monitor Ekpa’s legal proceedings and provide updates as the case progresses. The trial is expected to have implications for Nigeria’s security strategy in dealing with IPOB and its international affiliates.

Ekpa has been a controversial figure for his online activities, which include declarations and directives linked to disruptions and violence in Nigeria’s South-East region.