Sunday, February 9, 2025

Simon Ekpa Arrested in Finland, Accused of Inciting Violence in Nigeria

Simon Ekpa, a divisive pro-Biafra activist, has been arrested in Finland on suspicion of terrorist activities. Finnish police accuse Ekpa, leader of the Autopilot faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), of inciting violence and crimes in southeastern Nigeria through his social media channels. The arrest occurred on Thursday, along with four others, in a move aimed at addressing escalating tensions in the region.

“Mr. Ekpa has contributed to violence against civilians and authorities, as well as other crimes in southeastern Nigeria,” said Otto Hiltunen, Crime Commissioner at Finland’s Central Criminal Police. Authorities believe Ekpa orchestrated these activities from Finland, leveraging digital platforms to promote unrest.

READ MORE: Amb Iheagwu James Chimezie Inducted as Ambassador for Youth Development in Africa by the African Youth Parliament

The Päijät-Häme District Court will determine whether Ekpa will remain in custody as investigations continue. His arrest marks a significant step in efforts to address violence tied to the Biafra secessionist movement. Finnish police noted that his actions have led to severe consequences for communities in southeastern Nigeria, prompting international cooperation to curtail his influence.

Ekpa’s activities have sparked widespread debate, with supporters viewing him as a voice for the marginalized, while critics blame him for escalating instability in Nigeria. The development has brought renewed attention to the global dimensions of local conflicts and the role of digital media in fueling tensions.

Hot this week

LAMATA Begins Stakeholder Talks on 57km Purple Line to Ogun and Lagos, Reduce Traffic Congestion

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has begun...

Trump Freezes Aid to South Africa Over Land Seizure Law

In a dramatic policy shift, President Donald Trump has...

FG Approves ₦4.8bn for HIV Treatment, Protect Nigerians from Trump-Era Healthcare Cuts

The Nigerian government has approved ₦4.8 billion to ensure...

We Will Not Be Bullied’: Ramaphosa Responds to U.S. Criticism on Land Reform

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed that his...

Aging Infrastructure Drives NPA’s 15% Hike in Port Charges

Nigeria’s maritime industry is set for a shift as...

Proposed 31 New States Could Add Strain to Nigeria’s Fragile Economy – Mike Ozekhome

The Nigerian House of Representatives' proposal to create 31...

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s Founding Father, Dies at 95

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s Founding Father, Dies at 95 Namibia is...

Tinubu’s Authority Challenged as GAC Backs Obasa’s Removal in Lagos

President Bola Tinubu’s long-standing dominance over Lagos politics is...

Trump Freezes Aid to South Africa Over Land Seizure Law

In a dramatic policy shift, President Donald Trump has...

Energy Independence: How Dangote Group Generates 1,540 MW for Its Operations

The Dangote Group, led by billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote,...

Aging Infrastructure Drives NPA’s 15% Hike in Port Charges

Nigeria’s maritime industry is set for a shift as...

We Will Not Be Bullied’: Ramaphosa Responds to U.S. Criticism on Land Reform

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed that his...

Related Articles

Popular Categories