Finnish prosecutors are pursuing a six-year prison sentence for Simon Ekpa, a prominent pro-Biafran agitator currently on trial for terrorism-related offenses. Ekpa appeared in the Päijät-Häme District Court for a preparatory hearing, where substantial evidence of his online communications and activities was presented.

State prosecutor Sampsa Hakala emphasized the weight of the evidence against Ekpa, which includes digital traces indicating his involvement in promoting violence and inciting criminal activities through social media. The prosecution faces challenges in gathering reliable information, particularly since many alleged activities occurred in Africa.

In addition to the terrorism charges, the court is also examining allegations of aggravated tax fraud and potential arms procurement for pro-Biafra groups. Ekpa’s legal representative, Kaarle Gummerus, has denied the charges and questioned the credibility of information sourced from Nigeria.

Ekpa was remanded in custody following his arrest in November 2024, alongside four others, under suspicions related to incitement to violence and terrorism financing. He is known as the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile and has been accused of using social media to target civilians and authorities in Nigeria’s South-East region.

The case has garnered significant attention, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding the Biafra independence movement and the legal ramifications of digital activism. The court’s decision will be closely watched as it unfolds.