Finnish prosecutors are pushing for a six-year prison sentence for pro-Biafra agitator, Simon Ekpa, who is facing terrorism-related charges in Finland.
Ekpa, who appeared before the Päijät-Häme District Court on Friday for a preparatory hearing, is accused of inciting violence and supporting terrorism through online platforms.
The case, which has drawn attention from both Finnish and Nigerian authorities, involves charges of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent, aggravated tax fraud, and suspected arms dealings.
“We have a great deal of evidence regarding this individual’s online activity and communications,” said Finnish state prosecutor Sampsa Hakala, adding that much of the alleged criminal activity took place in Africa, complicating the investigation.
Ekpa’s legal representative, Kaarle Gummerus, strongly denied the accusations, questioning the reliability of information sourced from Nigeria.
“We are concerned about the credibility of the evidence provided, especially considering the geopolitical context,” Gummerus stated.
The court ordered that Ekpa remain in custody while investigations continue. According to Finnish media outlet Yle, the case is being jointly investigated by the Finnish police and Nigerian authorities.
Ekpa, who refers to himself as the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, was arrested in November 2024 alongside four others.
Finnish officials allege he used social media to promote violence in Nigeria’s South-East region, targeting both civilians and security agencies.
The trial continues.
