Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish political activist and leader of a Biafran separatist group, is now facing terrorism charges in Finland.
On Friday, Ekpa appeared in court at the Päijät-Häme District in Finland. This marks the start of his trial, which could lead to serious jail time.
Finnish authorities arrested him in November 2024. He was accused of supporting terrorism, inciting violence, and funding activities linked to unrest in Nigeria’s South-East region.
Prosecutors claim Ekpa used social media to promote violent actions connected to the push for Biafra’s independence. They believe his actions fall under terrorism, according to Finnish law. The state is asking for a six-year prison sentence.
“We have strong evidence, including his online posts and private messages,” said prosecutor Sampsa Hakala.
During questioning, Ekpa denied all the charges. He also said he never gave orders to buy weapons or support armed groups.
Ekpa is known for his role in the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE). The group has called him their “Prime Minister.” To show support for him, the BRGIE declared a two-day lockdown across Nigeria’s South-East.
“These two days are important for Biafrans everywhere,” the group said in a statement. “Our Prime Minister, Simon Ekpa, has been in detention in Finland since November 2024. On May 29, he appears in court, and we want all Biafrans to honour him as a hero.”
The case has drawn attention both in Nigeria and internationally. Many are watching closely to see how the Finnish court will rule on Ekpa’s fate.
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Biafra Day Lockdown: Imo State Shuts Down as Sit-at-Home Order Halts Daily Life
In a related development a statewide lockdown brought economic and social activities in Imo State and entire South East to a near standstill on Friday, as residents observed the annual Biafra Day sit-at-home.
Shops were closed. Schools and courts didn’t open. Markets were empty, and buses vanished from the roads. Government offices were silent.
Even major transport companies like ABC Transport suspended operations. A notice from the company said: “We won’t operate in or around the South-East on May 30 due to the region-wide lockdown.”
Many civil servants confirmed by phone that they stayed indoors with their families. The fear of violence kept most people behind closed doors.
Mixed Reactions Across Communities
While most of Imo observed the sit-at-home, some areas ignored it. In parts of Aboh Mbaise like Uvuru, Amuzu, and Lorji, life continued as usual. Schools opened. Orie Uvuru market was busy with traders and buyers.
However, in Ihitte Uboma, residents took no chances. They stayed indoors. One local, Mr. Ogueri, explained why:
“We have no police station in our area. If anything goes wrong, there’s no help coming. It’s safer to stay home.”
Another resident, a local priest who preferred to remain anonymous, criticized the use of fear to enforce the sit-at-home:
“We all want freedom, but this method is wrong. You can’t force people by threatening or harming them. It defeats the whole purpose.”
Police Promise Protection and Action
In response to the lockdown, the Imo State Police Command said it had taken steps to secure the state.
Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, released a statement reassuring residents:
“Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, urges Imolites to ignore IPOB’s threats. The police, along with the army, air force, DSS, and other security agencies, have increased patrols and deployments to prevent violence.”
The statement added that forces were active across all 27 local government areas.
They carried out visible patrols and “show-of-force” operations to deter criminals and calm public fears.
The police also issued a warning:
“Anyone caught trying to enforce the illegal sit-at-home order will face the full wrath of the law.”
Citizens were urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. Emergency contacts were shared for quick responses: 08034773600 or 08148024755.
