The Nigerian government has formally requested Finland to extradite Simon Ekpa, a former U.S. Marine turned Biafra separatist leader.
Ekpa was arrested in Finland on November 21, 2024, accused of inciting violence and financing terrorism in South East, Nigeria.
News of the extradition request was broken by the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, during an interview on Channels TV on New Year’s Eve.
Asked about the status of Mr. Ekpa, the defense chief said: “Well, I’m sure he’s cooling off somewhere.
“Legal action will be taken accordingly. I don’t want to say too much, but I’m glad he’s been arrested.
“The Federal Government has provided most of the required documentation to the Finnish Government, so I’m confident the right steps will be taken.”
A Lahti District Court in Finland ordered Ekpa remandED in prison pending further investigations and trial. The court cited probable cause for public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent in Nigeria.
Ekpa is the leader of a Biafra separatist group that calls itself the Biafran Government in Exile (BRGIE). He has been vocal about his demands for southeastern Nigeria’s independence.
It is unclear if Ekpa’s arrest has had a mellowing effect on his supporters and the separatist agitation. However, days after he was detained, his followers proceeded to declare “The United States of Biafra” on December 2, 2024.
Ekpa’s incarceration follows the extraordinary rendition of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the group—the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB)—who is still facing charges in an Abuja high court.
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