Simon Ekpa Appeals Six-Year Jail Sentence In Finland

Biafra separatist campaigner Simon Ekpa has appealed the six-year prison sentence handed down to him by a Finnish court over terrorism-related offences.

According to Ireporter Online, Ekpa is challenging the judgment before the Finnish Court of Appeal, with the case expected to be heard within the coming weeks. The Finnish prosecution has also filed an appeal, arguing that the sentence imposed on the Nigerian-born separatist was not severe enough considering the offences for which he was convicted.

Ekpa was arrested by Finnish authorities in November 2024 following investigations into his activities and alleged connections to violent separatist operations in Nigeria’s South-East.

He was later prosecuted over allegations including incitement to terrorism and participation in the activities of a terrorist organisation. In September 2025, the Päijät-Häme District Court convicted him and sentenced him to six years in prison.

While Ekpa is seeking to have the conviction or sentence overturned or reduced, prosecutors are asking the appellate court to impose a heavier punishment.

The district court had found that Ekpa used his substantial social media following to promote activities that contributed to heightened tensions in Nigeria’s South-East between August 2021 and November 2024.

The court described him as an influential figure within a militant separatist movement seeking an independent Biafra state and ruled that he had facilitated the supply of weapons, explosives and ammunition to groups operating in the region.

The court also found that Ekpa encouraged his followers on X to commit offences in Nigeria.

In addition to the terrorism-related conviction, Ekpa was found guilty of aggravated tax fraud and an offence connected to Finland’s Attorneys Act.

Ekpa has previously described himself as a disciple of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The Nigerian government also designated Ekpa as a terrorism financier in March 2025.

His appeal will now be considered alongside the prosecution’s request for a stiffer sentence.