Finnish Court approves Simon Ekpa’s extradition to Nigeria over terror-related charges

A Finnish court has approved the extradition of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRIGE), to Nigeria to face charges related to terrorism and incitement of violence.

According to Finnish media reports on Wednesday, the court ruling comes after months of intense diplomatic negotiations and legal proceedings between the Nigerian and Finnish governments.

Ekpa, who was arrested in Lahti, Finland, in November 2024 along with four accomplices, is expected to appear in a Finnish court in June before his extradition to Nigeria, scheduled for July 2025.

The decision marks a major breakthrough for Nigerian authorities seeking to curb unrest in the country’s southeast, which has been linked to Ekpa’s activities.

Finnish police accuse the Biafra separatist leader of using social media platforms to incite violence against civilians and security forces, and of coordinating attacks and enforcing illegal “sit-at-home” orders across the region.

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Sources revealed that Ekpa’s arrest was the result of collaborative investigations between Finnish law enforcement and Nigerian authorities.

His detention followed widespread concerns over the escalation of violence allegedly orchestrated through his online campaigns.

Following his arrest, the Nigerian government swiftly initiated extradition proceedings.

In December 2024, Nigeria submitted formal extradition requests and supporting legal documents to Finnish authorities. Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, speaking in an interview with Channels TV, confirmed that all necessary paperwork had been filed to facilitate Ekpa’s return to Nigeria for trial.

“I’m sure he’s cooling off somewhere,” General Musa remarked at the time. “Legal action will be taken accordingly. I’m confident the right steps will be taken, and the Federal Government has provided all necessary documentation to the Finnish Government.”

Ekpa’s extradition is seen as a significant step by Nigerian authorities to address the rising violence in the southeast and to send a strong message against the use of international platforms to destabilize the nation.

As of now, preparations are underway for Ekpa’s arraignment in Finland next month, after which he will be handed over to Nigerian authorities.