LunagisthubFinnish Court Sentences Simon Ekpa to Six Years in Prison for Terrorism Offences
A Finnish court has sentenced Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-born Finnish citizen, to six years in prison for terrorism-related crimes and other offences. The Päijät-Häme District Court convicted Ekpa on multiple charges, including participation in the activities of a terrorist organisation, incitement to commit crimes for terrorist purposes, aggravated tax fraud, and violations of the Lawyers Act.
According to the court, Ekpa attempted to promote the independence of the so-called Biafra region in southeastern Nigeria through illegal means between August 2021 and November 2024. He used social media to gain a politically influential position and took advantage of the confusion within a key separatist movement in Nigeria to play a significant role in it.
The court found that Ekpa was instrumental in founding and developing the separatist movement into a more organised structure, working alongside others. Armed groups were established under the movement, which the court classified as terrorist organisations. Ekpa was found to have equipped the groups with weapons, explosives, and ammunition through his contact network and urged his followers to commit crimes in Nigeria.
The trial was conducted over 12 sessions between May 30 and June 25, 2025, with a panel of three judges unanimously delivering the verdict. Ekpa denied all the charges against him, but the court’s decision was based on the evidence presented.
This verdict sends a strong message about the consequences of engaging in terrorism-related activities. It also highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism and ensuring that those who engage in such activities are held accountable.
What do you think about the court’s verdict? Is this a fair sentence, considering the charges against Ekpa?
Lunagisthub
