The Päijät-Häme District Court has officially set a deadline for May 2025 for prosecutors to present charges against Simon Ekpa, a prominent pro-Biafran agitator arrested in Finland on allegations of terrorism-related activities. This announcement comes amidst ongoing investigations into Ekpa's alleged incitement to violence and support for terrorist financing.
Simon Ekpa, who claims the title of Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, was taken into custody alongside four other individuals suspected of participating in terror-related activities. Finnish authorities have accused Ekpa of using social media platforms to promote violent actions against civilians and government officials in Nigeria's southeastern region, particularly during the controversial sit-at-home orders he issued during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections.
Mikko Laaksonen, Senior Detective Superintendent at Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), confirmed that the investigation remains active and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in this case. "Due to the ongoing investigation, no further details can be disclosed at this point," Laaksonen stated. He noted that the court has allowed for potential re-evaluations of Ekpa's detention every two weeks, depending on requests from either party involved.
The Finnish government has indicated that they are closely monitoring the situation and will ensure that justice is served. The case has attracted significant international attention, particularly from Nigerian authorities who have expressed concerns over Ekpa’s activities and their implications for national security.