BREAKING NEWS: Simon Ekpa Sentenced to Six Years in Finland for Terrorism and Tax Fraud

On September 1, 2025, the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland sentenced Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-born Finnish citizen and pro-Biafra separatist leader, to six years in prison. The court convicted Ekpa on multiple charges, including participation in a terrorist organization, public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent, and aggravated tax fraud.

The court’s ruling stemmed from Ekpa’s activities between August 2021 and November 2024, during which he used his significant social media following to incite violence and promote the independence of the Biafra region in southeastern Nigeria. The judges described Ekpa as an influential member of a militant separatist movement, noting that he supplied armed groups with weapons, explosives, and ammunition through his network. Additionally, Ekpa encouraged his followers on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to commit crimes in Nigeria.

Beyond his involvement in terrorism-related offenses, Ekpa was found guilty of aggravated tax fraud and violations of Finland’s Lawyers Act. The court determined that he had operated a firm, Ekpa & Co Oy, which provided immigration and family law advice without a valid license, presenting himself as a practicing attorney despite lacking authorization.

The verdict has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of Ekpa view the sentence as politically motivated, while critics argue that it is a necessary step in holding individuals accountable for actions that incite violence and disrupt national security. The Nigerian government has expressed its approval of the Finnish court’s decision, viewing it as a significant victory in the fight against terrorism and separatist movements.

Ekpa, who has denied all charges, has the option to appeal the decision to a higher court. The outcome of any potential appeal could have broader implications for international law and the jurisdictional reach of national courts in prosecuting individuals for crimes committed abroad.

The sentencing of Simon Ekpa marks a pivotal moment in the international response to separatist movements and underscores the importance of global cooperation in combating terrorism. It also highlights Finland’s role in addressing transnational threats and upholding international law. As the legal process continues, the case may set precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly concerning the balance between national sovereignty and international justice.