The Nigerian government has announced ongoing efforts to extradite Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of Biafra, from Finland to face trial in Nigeria. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, provided the update during a special event in Abuja on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
Fagbemi revealed that Ekpa is currently under investigation by Finnish authorities for terrorism-related offenses. The Nigerian government is collaborating closely with Finland to facilitate his extradition once the Finnish legal process is concluded. “He committed an offence against the Finnish government as well as in Nigeria. His extradition will come at the right time,” the Attorney General stated.
Simon Ekpa has been linked to violent activities attributed to unknown gunmen in Nigeria’s Southeast region. These attacks have been associated with separatist agitation, often under the shadow of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who is currently detained. Ekpa’s role as a key figure in the separatist movement has drawn significant attention from Nigerian security agencies.
In November 2024, Ekpa was arrested in Finland along with four others; however, the other detainees were subsequently released. The case now rests with Finland’s Deputy Prosecutor General, who will decide whether formal charges will be brought against Ekpa in Finland.
The Nigerian government’s statement underscores its commitment to bringing Ekpa to justice amid ongoing security challenges in the Southeast. The extradition process is expected to proceed once Finland’s legal procedures are finalized, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and separatist violence.