Simon Ekpa Remains in Custody, as Biafran Supporters Declare Independent State in Finland
Pro-Biafran activist Simon Ekpa, arrested in Finland for alleged terrorism-related activities, will remain in detention over the Christmas period, as Finnish law does not allow for bail in such cases. Ekpa’s arrest, along with four others, was confirmed by Finnish authorities last week. They are accused of inciting violence and financing terrorism, with Ekpa allegedly using social media to encourage attacks in Nigeria’s southeastern region.
A senior official from Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation, Mikko Laaksonen, clarified that Ekpa would face trial in May 2025 but would not be granted bail, as Finnish criminal procedures typically employ remand or travel bans rather than traditional bail. These measures restrict the movement of suspects based on the seriousness of the charges.
Meanwhile, Ekpa’s supporters held a significant gathering in Lahti, Finland, on Friday, where they declared the formation of the “United States of Biafra.” The event, titled ‘Biafra Mass Exodus 2024,’ saw a large turnout, with many participants traveling from various countries. The declaration included a pledge to establish a new currency, Biafra coins, and an official time zone, Biafra time, while signaling the intention to sever ties with the Nigerian government.
Dr. Ngozi Orabueze, a prominent figure within the Biafran movement and organizer of the conference, announced the re-declaration of the independent state of Biafra. Orabueze, who previously served as the Minister of Health in Ekpa’s self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, confirmed the historic declaration in a post on social media. The event was preceded by a video message from Ekpa, in which he criticized Nigeria’s historical control over Biafra’s resources and people, further fueling the call for independence.
Following the declaration, Orabueze took an oath to lead the United States of Biafra, listing several Nigerian states that would be part of the new entity, including Anambra, Okigwe, and Nnewi, among others. The event was marked by chants of “USB” (United States of Biafra) and patriotic songs.
Despite the bold declaration, the event faced significant opposition from other Biafran groups. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) disavowed any involvement, labeling Ekpa’s faction as criminal and emphasizing that IPOB would make such announcements through proper channels. Similarly, the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) expressed support for the idea of Biafran independence but argued that the declaration made in Finland had no legal standing and that Biafrans remained under Nigerian governance.
As Ekpa’s legal battle continues, there are growing calls for his extradition to Nigeria, where he faces terrorism charges. However, experts noted that there is no extradition treaty between Finland and Nigeria, complicating the matter. According to legal analysts, while Ekpa could potentially be tried in either country under international conventions, the lack of a bilateral extradition agreement may hinder his return to Nigeria.
This latest chapter in the Biafran independence movement continues to attract attention both locally and internationally, as Ekpa’s supporters press for global recognition of their cause, while critics question the legitimacy and practicality of the declaration.
