Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian political activist and leader of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE), appeared before the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland on Friday, May 30, 2025, as his terrorism trial commenced.
Ekpa faces charges including participation in a terrorist organization and public incitement to commit crimes for terrorist purposes. Prosecutors allege that between 2021 and 2024, he used social media platforms to incite violence and unrest in Nigeria’s South-East region as part of his separatist campaign for Biafra’s independence.
State prosecutor Sampsa Hakala stated that substantial evidence has been gathered regarding Ekpa’s online activities and communications. The prosecution is seeking a six-year prison sentence, marking a significant case under Finnish anti-terrorism laws.
Ekpa, who has resided in Lahti, Finland, since 2007, denies the charges but admitted to a minor tax offense. He was arrested in November 2024 alongside four others on suspicion of terrorist activities. ([Wikipedia][4], [Premium Times][5])
The BRGIE, which refers to Ekpa as its Prime Minister, declared a two-day lockdown across Nigeria’s South-East region to coincide with the trial’s commencement, urging supporters to honor Ekpa as a hero
The trial is expected to continue over several days, with a panel of three judges presiding. This case underscores the complexities of international law and the challenges of addressing transnational political activism.
