By Godwin Orozo-
Controversial Finnish-Nigerian separatist leader, Simon Ekpa, will be extradited to Nigeria in July 2025 to face terrorism-related charges, Finnish authorities have confirmed. The decision marks a major diplomatic breakthrough following months of negotiations and legal proceedings between the two countries.
Ekpa, who claims to be the “Prime Minister” of the self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile and leads a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested in Lahti, Finland, in November 2024.
Finnish police allege that Ekpa used social media platforms to incite violence against civilians and government officials in Nigeria’s southeastern region, a hotspot for the Biafran independence movement. Authorities also revealed that four other individuals were detained for allegedly financing his activities.
“This is a triumph for justice,” said a Nigerian Defence Ministry official who spoke on condition of anonymity. “We are grateful to the Finnish government for their cooperation. Ekpa’s extradition will ensure he faces accountability for the chaos he has orchestrated in our country.”
Ekpa has been accused by Nigerian authorities of coordinating violent attacks on security operatives and enforcing disruptive “sit-at-home” orders that have paralyzed economic activity in parts of the southeast.
Despite Finland’s usual reluctance to extradite its citizens beyond the European Union or Nordic countries, the government approved the move after what officials described as “compelling evidence” was presented by Nigeria. The case was bolstered by international legal cooperation under the Rome Statute, to which both nations are signatories.
“This decision reflects our commitment to international law and due process,” a spokesperson for Finland’s Ministry of Justice said. “All actions taken are in line with Finland’s legal obligations and the principles of justice.”
Ekpa’s extradition is expected to intensify the spotlight on separatist activities in Nigeria and the broader implications for diaspora-led activism.
