Lahti, Finland – In a significant legal decision with implications for security in Nigeria, a Finnish court has approved the extradition of Simon Ekpa, a controversial Finnish-Nigerian citizen, to Nigeria.

The Päijät-Häme District Court in Lahti delivered its ruling on April 18, 2025, setting the stage for Ekpa’s transfer on July 15, 2025.

 

Ekpa, who refers to himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-proclaimed Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, has been a prominent voice in the resurgence of separatist agitation and violence.

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It’s crucial to note that contrary to widespread reports in Nigerian media and some government statements, Ekpa is not associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). IPOB has consistently distanced itself from Ekpa, asserting it has no factions and does not recognize his authority or actions.

Instead, Ekpa leads a group known as “Autopilot,” which has alleged ties to a criminal armed wing called the Biafra Liberation Army (BLA). This network stands accused of orchestrating kidnappings, assassinations, and enforcing violent “sit-at-home” orders in southeastern Nigeria.

 

IPOB maintains that associating Ekpa with their organization is a dangerous misrepresentation that conflates their non-violent ideology with the violent extremism of Ekpa’s group.

“We are baffled by the continued insistence of the Nigerian government and media on labeling him as a factional leader within IPOB. This is blatant misinformation and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public,” an IPOB spokesperson stated emphatically.

 

“Simon Ekpa operates his own criminal enterprise, engaging in kidnapping and other violent activities that are completely divorced from the genuine Biafran struggle and IPOB’s commitment to non-violence.”

 

Finnish police apprehended Ekpa in Lahti in November 2024 following months of surveillance and investigation. He is accused of inciting violence remotely through social media broadcasts, actions that allegedly fueled attacks on civilians and Nigerian security forces. Four other individuals were also detained for allegedly financing and supporting his activities.

The Nigerian government, which has been actively seeking Ekpa’s extradition since early 2023, has welcomed the court’s decision as a significant victory.

 

A high-ranking official within the Ministry of Defence described it as “a triumph for justice and a clear message to those who believe they can destabilize Nigeria from foreign lands.”

 

Ekpa’s extradition faced legal hurdles, as Finland generally does not extradite its citizens to countries outside the EU or Nordic region. However, Nigeria presented compelling evidence under the Rome Statute, which both nations have ratified, leading to a rare agreement. Finnish authorities have affirmed that the ruling adheres to international law and respects due process.

 

Upon his arrival in Nigeria, Ekpa is expected to face a range of serious charges, including terrorism, conspiracy, incitement of violence, and crimes against the state. His legal proceedings are anticipated to be closely followed both domestically and internationally, with human rights organizations expected to monitor the case.