The Federal Government of Nigeria has indicated it may seek the repatriation of separatist agitator Simon Ekpa following his conviction and six-year jail sentence in Finland for terrorism-related offences.
The Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland found Ekpa, a Nigerian-born Finnish citizen, guilty of multiple crimes including involvement with a terrorist organization, incitement to commit terrorist acts, aggravated tax fraud and violating legal regulations.
He has been ordered to remain in custody.
Between August 2021 and November 2024, Ekpa used social media platforms to support separatist efforts in Nigeria’s South-East, promoting the so-called Biafra independence movement through violent means.
Finnish prosecutors revealed he was key in organizing and arming militant groups now designated as terrorist organizations.
According to court records, Ekpa’s online influence helped radicalize followers, who were urged to commit violent acts in Nigeria.
His trial spanned 12 sessions, with a unanimous verdict delivered by a panel of three judges.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the Federal Government would review the court ruling before making a decision on whether to seek Ekpa’s extradition after he serves his sentence.
“The government will assess the situation and act in the best interest of the country,” he said.
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), also praised the Finnish judiciary and hinted that legal and diplomatic steps would follow once the judgment is fully examined.
“We commend Finland for cooperating with Nigeria in fighting insecurity. Appropriate action will follow the formal review of the judgment.”
In a statement, the FG described the verdict as a “watershed moment” in the global fight against terrorism, reaffirming its commitment to legal and diplomatic solutions for maintaining national unity and peace.
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, hailed the conviction as a victory for international justice, warning that sponsors of terrorism will be held accountable no matter where they are.
Meanwhile, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) quickly distanced itself from Ekpa.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB insisted that Ekpa had no formal ties to the group and had even testified under oath that he was never a member.
“Ekpa created his own contraptions—‘Biafra Government in Exile,’ ‘Biafra Liberation Army’—none of which are affiliated with IPOB,” the statement said.
IPOB warned against linking its peaceful movement to Ekpa’s actions and urged international actors to prevent the Nigerian government from misusing the court’s ruling to discredit the group.
The Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders welcomed the judgment, calling it an opportunity to return to peace and unity in the region.
The group encouraged aggrieved parties to embrace non-violence and constructive dialogue.
IPOB’s legal counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, described Ekpa’s conviction as an inevitable outcome, calling him a fraudster who exploited the Biafra struggle for personal gain.
“His empire was built on lies, deceit, and violence. His conviction should serve as a warning to others who may follow that path,” Ejiofor said.
He accused Ekpa of misleading vulnerable followers with false promises of Biafran independence backed by imaginary warships and weapons.
