Nigerian Government Welcomes Conviction of Simon Ekpa, Pro Biafra Agitator in Finland as Justice Well Served
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reacted positively to the conviction of Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based Nigerian and self-acclaimed Biafra agitator, describing the judgment as a long-awaited step towards justice and accountability.
On Monday, the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland sentenced Ekpa to six years in prison after finding him guilty of participating in the activities of a terrorist organisation, incitement to commit crimes for terrorist purposes, and other related offences.
The ruling followed months of investigation by the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation, which uncovered evidence linking Ekpa’s broadcasts and directives to violence and disruptions in Nigeria’s South-East.
In a statement, the Federal Government hailed the verdict as “justice well served,” stressing that it not only validated Nigeria’s long-standing position on Ekpa’s activities but also reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended the Finnish judicial system for what it called a transparent and professional trial, noting that the judgment was a clear signal that no country would serve as a safe haven for individuals inciting violence abroad.
Government officials further explained that the conviction was crucial for Nigeria’s national security, as Ekpa’s sit-at-home orders and inflammatory messages had, in recent years, fueled attacks, economic paralysis, and fear across the South-East.
Security analysts also noted that the ruling strengthens Nigeria’s case for deeper collaboration with Finland on law enforcement, while bolstering ongoing efforts to dismantle cross-border extremist networks.
Reactions to the court’s decision have been mixed. In Abuja, the Presidency and security chiefs welcomed the judgment as a victory for justice and a warning to others using foreign platforms to destabilize the country.
Civil society organisations and victims’ families also applauded the ruling, calling for further action to ensure accountability for those killed or displaced by violence linked to separatist activities.
Meanwhile, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which has clashed with Ekpa in the past, quickly distanced itself from him. IPOB leaders reiterated that the group was not responsible for the violent acts cited in the Finnish court and sought to portray Ekpa’s conviction as separate from its own activities.
Background details show that Ekpa rose to prominence after positioning himself as a leading voice for Biafra separatism, using social media and online broadcasts to declare sit-at-home orders and to announce what he described as a “Biafra government in exile.”
His directives often coincided with violent incidents and economic lockdowns in the South-East, drawing condemnation from Nigerian authorities and human rights groups alike.
Although the court ruling is being celebrated in Nigeria, the legal process may continue. Under Finnish law, Ekpa retains the right to appeal his conviction. Nigerian authorities, however, have pledged to follow the case closely and pursue any lawful steps necessary to ensure justice for communities affected by violence.
For Abuja, Ekpa’s conviction represents not just the punishment of an individual but a broader affirmation that international justice mechanisms can hold agitators accountable, even when they operate from outside Nigeria’s borders. Officials insist that the judgment will serve as a deterrent to others attempting to exploit distance and digital platforms to undermine peace and stability back home.
