The Finnish government has frozen the assets of Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafra agitator, in connection with alleged terrorist activities. The move follows his arrest, along with four others, on November 21 on suspicion of terrorism.
A Finnish newspaper reported that the National Bureau of Investigation (Keskusrikospoliisi, KRP) took action against Mr. Ekpa’s assets, as well as those of associated individuals, organizations, and businesses.
It was previously reported that Mr. Ekpa was detained by Finnish authorities for allegedly inciting violence and crimes against civilians in southeastern Nigeria. The District Court of Päijät-Häme subsequently ordered his imprisonment, citing probable cause for public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
He is expected to face charges in May 2025. Finnish authorities accuse him and four others of financing terrorism and collecting funds in violation of Finland’s Money Collection Act between August 2021 and November 2024.
Simon Ekpa, a dual Nigerian-Finnish citizen, leads a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) called Autopilot. IPOB seeks the creation of an independent state of Biafra from Nigeria’s southeast and parts of the south-south. The group has been linked to violent attacks in these regions, although IPOB has denied involvement.
Following his arrest, IPOB factions loyal to Nnamdi Kanu distanced themselves from Mr. Ekpa, insisting he was never an IPOB member.
Finnish authorities allege that Mr. Ekpa could obstruct investigations or continue criminal activities if released. He is currently detained at Kylmäkoski Prison, known for housing individuals accused of serious crimes.
Mr. Ekpa’s assistant, Ilkka Kopra, stated that he denies all terrorism-related allegations.
This development intensifies scrutiny of separatist activities linked to Nigeria’s southeast. It remains unclear how this case will affect insecurity in the region or the broader Biafra movement.
