By Divine Sam
Simon Ekpa, a prominent pro-Biafra agitator, has been arrested in Finland alongside four other individuals on terrorism-related charges. Ekpa, who claims to be the self-declared Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, was detained by Finnish authorities on suspicion of “public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.” The Finnish police allege that Ekpa used his position and social media platforms to promote violence in South-Eastern Nigeria, contributing to attacks against civilians, authorities, and other violent crimes.
The four other individuals arrested are suspected of financing terrorist activities. The case is linked to a broader investigation into actions allegedly orchestrated from Finland that incited violence in Nigeria, particularly through the activities of the Eastern Security Network, which is reportedly under Ekpa’s control. His arrest follows a series of deadly attacks in South-Eastern Nigeria, which are believed to be connected to the pro-Biafra movement and its armed wing, the IPOB (Indigenous People of Biafra).
Ekpa, who lives in Lahti, Finland, is also involved in local politics as a member of the National Coalition Party (NCP) and serves on Lahti’s public transport committee.