Finnish-Nigerian separatist leader Simon Ekpa has been arrested in Finland alongside four others on suspicion of terror-related activities, including incitement to violence and terrorism financing, according to local media reports.
The Päijät-Häme District Court remanded Ekpa in custody on November 21 on charges of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Finnish Central Criminal Police confirmed the arrests of five individuals linked to the investigation.
Terror-Related Accusations
According to the Finnish police, Ekpa, identified as the main suspect, was detained for allegedly inciting violence and promoting activities that have resulted in harm to civilians and authorities in Nigeria’s South-East region. The four others were arrested on suspicion of financing these activities.
“The detention demands are related to a preliminary investigation in which a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, born in the 1980s, is suspected of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent,” the police stated.
The charges claim that Ekpa coordinated his activities from Finland, leveraging social media platforms to incite violence and other criminal acts. Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen, head of the investigation, said, “The man has carried out this activity, among other things, on his social media channels.”
Violent Actions and International Cooperation
Ekpa is accused of orchestrating violent actions against civilians and authorities in South-Eastern Nigeria, allegedly using his position as a separatist leader to fuel unrest. His infamous declaration in 2023 that “no elections will be held in Biafran territory” further spotlighted his controversial activities.
The police revealed that international cooperation has been integral to the investigation, emphasizing the complexity and scope of the case.
Financial Links and Additional Arrests
The other four suspects are accused of financing the activities under investigation, which include incitement and acts of violence. “All five suspects of the crime have been arrested during the beginning of the week,” the Finnish police confirmed, adding that the case involves coordination with international agencies.
Background and Previous Incidents
Ekpa, who has dual Nigerian and Finnish citizenship, has long been a controversial figure. In 2023, he was briefly detained on allegations of fundraising fraud. His activities, including declarations opposing Nigerian elections in areas he describes as “Biafran territory,” have drawn widespread criticism.
Next Steps
The suspects are expected to face further hearings in the Päijät-Häme District Court. Finnish authorities continue their investigation, with international agencies closely monitoring the case due to its potential global implications.
