September 1, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
The Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland has sentenced Nigerian-born Finnish citizen, Simon Ekpa, to six years imprisonment for terrorism-related offences and other crimes.
The 40-year-old former municipal politician from Lahti was convicted on multiple counts, including participation in a terrorist organisation, incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent, aggravated tax fraud, and violations of the Attorneys Act.
According to court documents, between August 2021 and November 2024, Ekpa sought to promote the independence of the so-called Biafra region in southeastern Nigeria through illegal means. The court found that he used his social media platforms to incite violence, build influence, and encourage crimes in Nigeria.
The judgment also revealed that the movement he coordinated had established armed groups classified as terrorist organisations. Evidence presented in court showed that Ekpa supplied these groups with weapons, explosives, and ammunition through his network of contacts.
Beyond the terrorism charges, Ekpa was also found guilty of serious financial crimes, including aggravated tax fraud and professional misconduct under the Attorneys Act.
The District Court ordered that Ekpa remain in custody, reflecting the gravity of the offences. However, the ruling is subject to appeal.
The verdict marks a significant legal milestone, given Ekpa’s influence on separatist movements in Nigeria’s southeast, where his directives had previously sparked unrest.
