Finnish authorities have arrested Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian separatist leader and self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government In-Exile, alongside four others for alleged terror-related offenses.
Ekpa, known for his controversial advocacy for Biafra’s independence from Nigeria, was detained on suspicion of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.
The Päijät-Häme District Court remanded Ekpa in custody following investigations led by the Finnish Central Criminal Police.
READ ALSO: Gold Prices Soar Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict, Rising Inflation
The arrests, confirmed in a statement released on Thursday, November 21, came after allegations that Ekpa used social media to incite violence and other crimes in South-Eastern Nigeria.
According to Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen, the investigation focuses on Ekpa’s alleged promotion of violent activities targeting civilians and authorities.
The man has carried out this activity, among other things, on his social media channels, Hiltunen stated. Authorities suspect that his online activities fueled violence and unrest in Nigeria, drawing international attention.
The four other suspects face charges of financing terrorism, with officials accusing them of supporting Ekpa’s activities through financial contributions.
The arrests were reportedly made earlier in the week, and Finnish authorities emphasized the importance of international collaboration in advancing the investigation. “Claims will be heard in Päijät-Häme District Court today, November 21,” the police statement added.
FOR MORE UPDATES FOLLOW OUR WHATSAPP CHANEL: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaNylaS7tkj6nmqtSl25
