Finnish-Nigerian separatist agitator Simon Ekpa has been arrested in Finland on suspicion of involvement in terror-related activities. Ekpa, who styles himself as the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government In-Exile, was remanded by the Päijät-Häme District Court on Thursday, November 21, 2024, over allegations of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
The Central Criminal Police of Finland confirmed his arrest in a statement, revealing that four individuals were detained for suspected terrorist crimes. While Ekpa is accused of public incitement to commit terrorism, the other suspects are being investigated for allegedly financing terrorist activities.
“Claims will be heard in Päijät-Häme district court today,” the Finnish police statement read.
Ekpa, a controversial figure, has drawn widespread criticism and calls for his arrest due to his alleged role in enforcing the Sit-At-Home order, which has severely disrupted economic activities in Nigeria’s Southeast region.
The Sit-At-Home directives, ostensibly in support of the separatist movement for an independent Biafra, have led to violence, destruction, and loss of lives. Nigerian authorities and regional leaders have consistently condemned Ekpa’s influence in perpetuating these actions from abroad.
This arrest marks a significant development in the international effort to address separatist activities linked to terrorism. Investigations by Finnish authorities are ongoing, with charges expected to be clarified in the coming days.
