The Federal Government has hailed Simon Ekpa’s six-year conviction in Finland as a “major victory” against terrorism and separatist violence
The Federal Government has welcomed the conviction of pro-Biafra agitator Simon Ekpa by a Finnish court, describing it as “a major victory” against terrorism. Information Minister Mohammed Idris said Ekpa’s sentencing to six years in prison was a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against violent separatist activities. “We welcome the news of Simon Ekpa’s conviction by a Finnish court for terrorism-related crimes and his sentencing to six years in prison. A major victory for the Nigerian people in the collective fight against terror,” Idris posted on X.
The Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland found Ekpa guilty of terrorism-related offences, incitement, aggravated tax fraud, and violating the Lawyers Act. Judges ruled that he supplied weapons, explosives, and ammunition to separatist groups, while encouraging followers on X to commit crimes in Nigeria. The trial, held between May 30 and June 25, involved 12 days of hearings. Though Ekpa denied the charges, the court maintained jurisdiction since he operated from Lahti, Finland.