Reactions are intensifying across Southeast Nigeria following the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-styled Prime Minister of Biafra, with key regional figures demanding his sentencing and the release of Nnamdi Kanu. Ekpa was apprehended by Finnish authorities on November 27, 2024, along with four others, under suspicion of inciting terrorism via social media. The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) revealed that Ekpa, who holds dual citizenship in Finland and Nigeria, is under investigation for encouraging acts of terrorism and funding militant groups.

Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen, leading the investigation, stated that Ekpa’s online activities had incited violence against civilians and public officials in Southeast Nigeria. “His influence from Finland has contributed to the ongoing violence and instability in the region,” Hiltunen remarked.

Ekpa’s arrest comes amid escalating unrest in the Southeast, where armed groups have been terrorizing locals, claiming to uphold Biafra’s independence. These groups have aligned themselves with the Monday sit-at-home order, which was originally a protest by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) demanding Nnamdi Kanu’s release. However, IPOB has distanced itself from Ekpa, denouncing him as not being part of their movement.

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Abia South Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe has voiced concerns that true solutions to the region’s turmoil lie in the release of Nnamdi Kanu, rather than Ekpa’s arrest. Abaribe believes that Kanu’s freedom will distinguish genuine Biafra supporters from those using violence for personal gain. “You cannot fight for Biafra through the destruction of your own people. The violence will cease with Kanu’s release, and the real advocates will emerge,” he stated.

National defense expert, Retired US Army Captain Bishop Johnson, emphasized that how Finland handles Ekpa’s case could influence the security situation in Southeast Nigeria. Johnson noted that holding Ekpa accountable in Finland could diminish his impact on the region’s violence. However, he also warned that Ekpa’s potential extradition to Nigeria could escalate tensions if he is treated similarly to Kanu, whose prolonged detention has sparked widespread unrest. “The handling of Ekpa’s case could either bring peace or deepen the crisis. If due process is followed, it could help restore stability,” Johnson said.

Osita Okechukwu, former Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, also called for Ekpa’s sentencing, either in Finland or Nigeria, for his role in fostering violence in the Southeast. Okechukwu lauded the long-awaited action taken against Ekpa, describing his arrest as “long overdue.” “Ekpa’s actions have contributed to the suffering of the people in the Southeast. He should face justice, wherever it happens,” Okechukwu stated.