Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian politician and leader of the Biafran separatist movement, has been detained by a Finnish court for alleged incitement to terrorism. He is accused of using social media to coordinate violent activities in Nigeria.
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian municipal politician and leader of the Biafran separatist movement, has been detained by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland over allegations of inciting crimes with terrorist intent. Ekpa, who serves on Lahti’s public transport committee and has ties to Finland’s National Coalition Party, faces accusations tied to his leadership role in Nigeria’s southeastern separatist movement.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) alleges that Ekpa used his social media platforms to coordinate violent activities against civilians and Nigerian authorities. These actions were reportedly orchestrated from Finland and are part of a larger investigation involving four other suspects accused of financing terrorism.
Detective Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen of the NBI stated, “This activity has been carried out, among other means, via social media channels,” highlighting the role of digital platforms in promoting these actions.
Background and Allegations
Ekpa has been a controversial figure for his involvement in Nigeria’s separatist movement. He has publicly supported boycotts of elections in southeastern Nigeria and justified violence, claiming it as self-defense against alleged government aggression.
“No elections will be held! Nigerian elections will not be allowed in Biafran territory in 2023,” Ekpa proclaimed in a widely circulated video.
The Nigerian government has accused Simon Ekpa of being a key instigator of violence in the southeast, including attacks on security personnel and public infrastructure. They allege his social media broadcasts from Finland have emboldened insurgent activities in the region.
History of Controversy
This is not Ekpa’s first brush with the law. In 2023, Finnish authorities detained him over allegations of fundraising fraud, although he was released shortly after.
Ekpa’s ties to Finland’s National Coalition Party have drawn scrutiny. While the party has not confirmed his membership, Secretary Timo Elo stated, “If a member is suspected of terrorism offenses, that would likely lead to their expulsion.”
Activities in Nigeria
Simon Ekpa has allegedly led a faction of the Biafran separatist group that has been linked to a spate of violent incidents in southeastern Nigeria. His broadcasts are said to incite unrest, promote boycotts of democratic processes, and encourage violent resistance against Nigerian authorities.
The Nigerian government has condemned these activities, claiming they have destabilized the region and led to significant loss of lives and property.
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