Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish IPOB leader, has been arrested in Finland following diplomatic pressure from Nigeria. Accused of inciting terrorism and promoting violence, Ekpa faces charges linked to social media propaganda fueling unrest in Nigeria's South-East. The arrest highlights Nigeria’s efforts to address security challenges through international collaboration.
The Nigerian government has confirmed that Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen and self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested in Finland following diplomatic efforts. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that Ekpa faces charges of inciting terrorism and promoting violence.
A statement from the ministry highlighted that Ekpa's actions allegedly fueled unrest in Nigeria's South-East region, with Finnish investigators linking his online activities to incidents of violence. The Finnish District Court of Päijät-Häme ordered his detention on the grounds of probable cause for inciting crimes with terrorist intent.
Ekpa’s use of social media to disseminate separatist propaganda and encourage illegal activities reportedly caused significant disruptions. The Nigerian government emphasized that his arrest resulted from sustained diplomatic pressure on Finland to address his actions, which were viewed as contributing to instability in Nigeria.
Public reactions to the arrest have been mixed. While some praised the government’s efforts, others criticized the perceived lack of action against domestic issues. Calls for Ekpa’s extradition to Nigeria have intensified, with many urging accountability for his alleged role in escalating tensions in the South-East.
