A Finnish court has officially approved the extradition of Simon Ekpa, the Finnish-Nigerian separatist leader, to Nigeria where he faces serious charges including incitement, terrorism, and conspiracy. The Päijät-Häme District Court in Lahti ruled on April 18, 2025, in favor of Nigeria’s longstanding extradition request, with the transfer scheduled for July 15, 2025.
Ekpa, who styles himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, was arrested in Finland in November 2024 after months of surveillance by Finnish security agencies. He is accused of orchestrating violent acts such as kidnappings, targeted killings, and enforcing “sit-at-home” orders in Nigeria’s southeastern region from abroad.
Although frequently linked by media and officials to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the group has consistently disavowed Ekpa, stating he operates independently and that his actions do not represent their non-violent struggle.
The extradition was secured under the Rome Statute, a treaty ratified by both Finland and Nigeria, with Finnish authorities emphasizing that the decision followed due legal process and international law.
The Nigerian government has welcomed the ruling, describing it as a significant step toward justice and a clear message against attempts to destabilize the country from overseas. Ekpa’s trial in Nigeria is expected to draw significant national and international attention.