Justice Minister Fagbemi Praises Finnish Court’s Conviction of Simon Ekpa

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on Monday commended the conviction of Nigerian-born separatist figure Simon Ekpa by a Finnish court, describing the ruling as a strong validation of Ekpa’s involvement in violent crimes in Nigeria’s South-East.
In a formal statement, Fagbemi welcomed the six-year prison sentence handed down by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, noting that the decision aligns with Nigeria’s long-standing assertions regarding Ekpa’s role in destabilizing the region.
“This conviction confirms what we have always maintained — that Simon Ekpa played a key role in orchestrating terror and violence, especially in the South East,” the AGF stated. “We are pleased with the Finnish court’s decision, which recognizes the gravity of the offences he committed against Nigerians.”
Fagbemi also praised Finnish authorities for their cooperation throughout the legal process, emphasizing that the ruling demonstrates a growing international commitment to tackling transnational crimes.
“This outcome signals the potential for deeper collaboration going forward. We will carefully review the full judgment and take further appropriate action,” he added.
The Finnish court found 40-year-old Ekpa guilty of inciting terrorism and being actively involved in a terrorist organization.
The three-member panel of judges ruled unanimously, citing Ekpa’s use of his large social media platform to escalate tensions in Nigeria’s South-East between August 2021 and November 2024.
The court described Ekpa as a prominent figure in a violent separatist movement seeking to establish an independent Biafran state.
It also found that he facilitated the supply of weapons, explosives, and ammunition to militant groups and encouraged his followers on the social media platform X to commit criminal acts in Nigeria.
Though based in the Finnish city of Lahti, where he once served as a local councillor, Ekpa reportedly coordinated his activities from there, giving the Finnish court jurisdiction over the case.