The Finnish government has initiated legal proceedings against Simon Ekpa, a controversial figure known for his secessionist activities with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Nigeria’s South-East region. This development was announced by Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen, during a joint press conference with her Nordic counterparts in Abuja on Tuesday.
Minister Valtonen revealed that the case against Ekpa, who has been a vocal advocate for the Biafran cause, was brought to the attention of Finnish authorities by the Nigerian government. She stated that the matter is currently being handled by Finnish courts, reflecting the seriousness with which Finland views Ekpa’s activities.
Simon Ekpa, who refers to himself as the "Biafra Prime Minister," has gained notoriety for his staunch support of sit-at-home orders across South-Eastern Nigeria. These directives have had a significant impact on the region, disrupting daily life and economic activities. Despite the IPOB’s leadership suspending the sit-at-home exercise, Ekpa has continued to promote it, often using social media platforms to rally support.
In February 2023, just days before Nigeria’s presidential and national assembly elections, Ekpa was arrested by Finnish authorities at his residence in Lahti. His arrest followed threats that the elections would not take place in the South-East, a region already tense due to his previous directives. Finnish media outlet Helsingin Sanomat reported on the incident, highlighting the international implications of Ekpa’s actions.
Ekpa’s stance has also included a firm declaration that no elections should be held in the South-East until IPOB’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is released from detention. This position has put him at odds with IPOB’s official leadership, which has sought to distance itself from his more extreme actions. Despite his arrest, Ekpa was released shortly afterward and has since resumed his activities, remaining highly active on social media where he continues to spread his pro-Biafran rhetoric.
The visit of Minister Valtonen and her Nordic counterparts to Nigeria is part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between Nordic countries and West Africa. In addition to discussing trade relations, the ministers emphasized the importance of addressing security challenges in the region, particularly the threat posed by violent extremists. They also reiterated their commitment to supporting Nigeria and other West African nations in achieving sustainable development goals.
The Nordic delegation’s visit, which includes stops in Nigeria and Ghana, underscores the increasing focus on deepening cooperation with African nations. As they continue their diplomatic tour, the ministers are expected to explore various avenues for collaboration, with a particular emphasis on promoting peace and stability in the region.
This legal action against Simon Ekpa marks a significant step by the Finnish government in addressing the international ramifications of his activities. As the case proceeds in Finnish courts, it remains to be seen what impact this will have on the broader dynamics of the Biafran agitation and Nigeria’s efforts to maintain unity and peace in its South-East region.
