Finnish court approves extradition of Simon Ekpa to Nigeria

A Finnish court has given the green light for the extradition of Simon Ekpa, the Finnish-Nigerian separatist leader, to Nigeria, where he is facing multiple serious charges, including terrorism, incitement to violence, and conspiracy.

The Päijät-Häme District Court in Lahti ruled in favor of the extradition on April 18, 2025, and the transfer is officially scheduled for July 15, 2025.

Ekpa, known for his controversial broadcasts and pro-Biafra rhetoric, was arrested in Lahti in November 2024 after months of surveillance by Finnish security agencies. His arrest followed numerous calls from Nigerian authorities and international observers for his apprehension, citing his alleged role in fueling unrest and violent activities in southeastern Nigeria.

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Ekpa, who refers to himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, has been at the center of escalating violent separatist rhetoric targeting Nigeria’s southeastern region.

He has been accused of orchestrating kidnappings, and targeted killings in southeastern Nigeria from abroad.

However, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the separatist group has repeatedly distanced itself from Ekpa. “Ekpa operates independently. Linking him to IPOB is misleading and dangerous,” said an IPOB spokesperson. “His actions are not part of our struggle.”