The terrorism trial of Nigerian-Finnish separatist campaigner, Simon Ekpa, began on Friday in Finland, marking a significant step in the legal scrutiny of his controversial activism.
Ekpa, a key figure in a faction of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is facing terrorism-related charges filed by Finnish authorities on May 16, 2025.
According to Finnish prosecutors, Ekpa is being tried for allegedly inciting criminal acts with terrorist motives and for alleged involvement in a terrorist organisation.
The charges stem from his public online activities, which authorities claim have fueled unrest in Nigeria’s South-East region.
He appeared at the Päijät-Häme District Court on Friday, several months after his arrest in November 2024, which followed a request by the Nigerian government for action over his online broadcasts and statements.
Prosecutors have accused him of using digital platforms to promote violence and destabilization as part of a broader campaign for Biafran secession.
Finnish state prosecutor Sampsa Hakala was quoted as saying, “We have substantial evidence concerning the defendant’s online behavior and communications.”
Authorities are seeking a six-year prison sentence for Ekpa, arguing that his influence and directives may fall under the legal definition of terrorism in Finland.
Ekpa has denied the allegations during preliminary investigations, including claims that he coordinated or supplied weapons to armed pro-Biafra elements.
The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks as the Finnish legal system reviews the case and its broader international implications.
