Simon Ekpa Sentenced to 6 Years in Finland for Terrorism and Tax Fraud

By DAYO ADESULU

The Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland has sentenced Nigerian-born Finnish politician, Simon Ekpa, to six years in prison after finding him guilty of terrorism-related offences, aggravated tax fraud, and incitement to commit crimes for terrorist purposes.

Ekpa, a 40-year-old former municipal councillor in Lahti, was also convicted of violating Finland’s Lawyers Act. The court ordered that he remain in custody immediately.

Convictions and Court Findings

According to official court documents cited by BBC News Pidgin, between August 2021 and November 2024, Ekpa actively sought to promote the independence of Biafra in southeastern Nigeria through illegal and violent means.

The court found that:

• He used social media platforms to incite violence and attract followers.
• He played a leading role in restructuring separatist movements in Nigeria.
• He helped create and equip armed groups with weapons, explosives, and ammunition, which the court classified as terrorist organisations.

Despite denying all charges, the judges unanimously ruled against him after a 12-session trial held between May and June 2025.

Background on Arrest and Charges

Ekpa was first arrested in December 2024 by Finnish authorities on suspicion of incitement and terrorist financing. Four others were initially detained but later released for lack of evidence.

Known for his fiery online broadcasts and strong separatist stance, Ekpa became a controversial figure, drawing both support from Biafra sympathizers and criticism from Nigerian and international authorities.

Implications of the Ruling

The conviction is expected to have broad political and diplomatic consequences, especially for Nigeria-Finland relations.

For Nigeria, the verdict is likely to be viewed as a victory against separatist extremism, while Ekpa’s supporters may see it as an attack on political expression.

The Finnish court, however, stressed that the case was not political but a matter of national and international security, affirming that terrorism-related activities will not be tolerated on Finnish soil, even if directed abroad.

👉 This rewrite keeps the news sharp, professional, and structured for online readers while retaining key details.