By The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed that Simon Ekpa, a key figure in the Biafran separatist movement, will be extradited from Finland to Nigeria to face charges, according to reports.
This follows his detention in Finland, where he was remanded on charges of inciting terrorist activities.
The Nigerian government, represented by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, expressed approval of Ekpa’s arrest and hopes that the extradition process will allow him to face justice for his alleged involvement in violence in southeastern Nigeria.
Ekpa is accused of using social media to promote the separatist agenda of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and incite violence.
The Blackbox Nigeria previously reported that Finnish authorities allege that his online activities have contributed to unrest in southeastern Nigeria. The charges date back to August 2021 and link Ekpa to a series of violent incidents in the region.
In addition to his role in the separatist movement, Ekpa is under investigation for financial crimes, particularly for allegedly raising funds through illicit means to support his activities. Finnish investigators have also connected him to four other individuals suspected of financially supporting his operations.
Ekpa was previously detained by Finnish authorities in February 2023 but was released on the same day after being questioned. Despite this incident, he continued his online activities, which prompted further investigations into his involvement in criminal acts.
In addition to his online presence, Ekpa has been active in local politics in Finland, serving as a deputy councillor with the National Coalition Party. However, his actions related to the Biafran independence movement have largely shaped his public profile, particularly his calls for election boycotts and his support for separatism.
