Just-In: Court Convicts Simon Ekpa of Terrorism

A Finnish court has convicted Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of the Biafra separatist movement, on terrorism-related charges linked to his online activities inciting violence in Nigeria.

Ekpa, who refers to himself as the Prime Minister of Biafra, was found guilty of using his social media platforms to promote and incite acts of terror, including attacks and unrest in Nigeria’s southeastern region.

The Päijät-Häme District Court also found Ekpa guilty of aggravated tax fraud and violating provisions of the Attorneys Act.

The court determined that between August 2021 and November 2024, Ekpa sought to promote the independence of the Biafra region in southeastern Nigeria through illegal means. He used social media to gain a politically influential position.

Additionally, the movement established armed groups that the district court classified as terrorist organisations. According to the verdict, Ekpa supplied these groups with weapons, explosives, and ammunition through his network of contacts. He was also found to have encouraged and incited followers of his X account to commit crimes in Nigeria.

As a result, the court sentenced Ekpa to six years in prison.