LagosExplorer reports: The Federal Government of Nigeria has commended Finland for the conviction and six-year sentencing of Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed Biafra agitator, describing the judgment as a major victory against terrorism and hate campaigns that destabilized the Southeast.
The Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland handed down the sentence on Ekpa after finding him guilty of incitement and spreading violent propaganda that triggered killings, destruction of businesses, and fear across Nigeria’s Southeast region. The conviction comes after years of tension fueled by his online directives, including sit-at-home orders that crippled economic activity.
In a statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government praised Finland for standing with Nigeria in the global fight against violent extremism. He noted that Ekpa’s actions left “families shattered, children orphaned, livelihoods destroyed, and communities traumatized,” stressing that justice has finally been served.
“The conviction of Simon Ekpa marks a turning point for thousands of innocent Nigerians whose lives and livelihoods were brutally disrupted by his reckless incitement. It also reinforces the fact that international cooperation is key to tackling cross-border terrorism,” the statement read.
The Federal Government emphasized that the judgment is not only a victory for victims but also a warning to other extremists who believe distance shields them from accountability. Officials said Nigeria will continue to work with Finland and other international partners to ensure peace and security across the country.
Ekpa, who claims to be a disciple of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), had long been accused of using social media platforms to issue threats and coordinate violent actions from his base in Finland. His conviction is now seen as a stern message that promoters of violence, no matter their location, will face the weight of the law.
The FG urged citizens in the Southeast and across Nigeria to embrace peace, unity, and lawful means of expression, assuring that government remains committed to restoring normalcy and rebuilding affected communities.