Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-born activist based in Finland, has been ordered detained by the Päijät-Häme District Court on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. The decision, made on Thursday, November 21, follows allegations that Ekpa used his social media platforms to promote violence and incite unrest in southeastern Nigeria.
What Led to the Arrest?
According to Finnish authorities, Ekpa is suspected of spearheading efforts to instigate violent actions against civilians and authorities in Nigeria, all while operating from his residence in Lahti, Finland. The allegations also include the collection of funds purportedly used to support terrorist activities.
The Finnish Central Criminal Police presented their findings, but it was the district court that ultimately ruled for Ekpa’s detention. This update corrects earlier reports suggesting the police ordered the arrest.
Charges Against Ekpa
The court documents reveal that Ekpa’s alleged offenses occurred between August 2021 and November 2024. Finnish authorities claim that his activities, conducted largely through social media, have contributed to violence in Nigeria. The charges include:
- Public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
- Collection of funds linked to financing terrorism.
The court also ordered the detention of four additional suspects linked to financing terrorist activities. These individuals, identified as foreign nationals born in the 1960s and 1970s, are alleged to have committed their offenses in Lahti in August 2022.
Ekpa’s Role in the Biafran Movement
Ekpa is a prominent advocate for the independence of Biafra, a region in southeastern Nigeria. He has long been associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a separatist movement. Ekpa has claimed to deputize IPOB’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and command its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
However, his actions have sparked controversy within the movement itself, with some IPOB members accusing him of misrepresenting their leader and using the cause for personal gain.
In the past, Ekpa has openly encouraged the boycott of Nigerian elections and called for civil disobedience. Finnish authorities now allege that his incitement has gone beyond rhetoric, leading to real violence on the ground.
International Concerns
Ekpa’s activities have drawn significant attention from both Finnish and Nigerian authorities. In February 2023, the Nigerian government expressed concern about Ekpa’s influence on the country’s security and even summoned Finland’s ambassador to address the matter.
At the time, Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the concerns, emphasizing their condemnation of violence and incitement. Ekpa was briefly detained in February 2023 but released after questioning.
What’s Next?
Finnish authorities are continuing their investigations, aided by international cooperation. The specifics of Ekpa’s alleged crimes remain undisclosed by the police, but his detention marks a significant escalation in efforts to address his controversial activities.
If found guilty, Ekpa faces severe consequences under Finnish and international law. For now, his supporters and critics await further developments as the legal proceedings continue.
Conclusion
Simon Ekpa’s case shows how serious authorities are about stopping the use of social media to spread violence or support illegal activities. While the accusations against him have not been proven yet, the Finnish court’s decision sends a strong message that such actions won’t be ignored.
This case is still developing, and more updates will follow in the coming days.
