From Municipal Leader to Convicted Separatist: Simon Ekpa Sentenced to 6 Years for Treason. What’s Next.

From Municipal Leader to Convicted Separatist: Simon Ekpa Sentenced to 6 Years for Treason. What’s Next.

Around the world.

The news as it trends. Photos / Court video below.

Simon Ekpa’s sentencing to six years in prison by the Paijat-Hame District Court in Finland marks a dramatic fall from grace for the Nigerian-born activist.

Once a celebrated track athlete and respected municipal politician in Lahti, Finland, Ekpa had built a life that included Finnish citizenship, national service, and active involvement in the Igbo community.

He lived with his family, reportedly including a wife and children—though details about them remain private, likely due to the sensitive nature of his conviction.

Ekpa’s transformation began around 2019, when he emerged online as a vocal proponent of Biafran independence.

Styling himself as “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, he used social media to issue sit-at-home orders and rally support.

Finnish prosecutors argued that his influence extended beyond rhetoric, linking him to the organization and arming of separatist groups in Nigeria.

Now imprisoned, Ekpa’s political future is uncertain. His conviction may fracture the movement he helped shape or galvanize supporters who see him as a martyr.

Meanwhile, his family faces the fallout of his notoriety, and Finnish authorities continue to grapple with the implications of transnational activism and the limits of free speech.

It remains to be seen how this conviction will affect Nnamdi Kanu, who is still detained in a Nigerian prison.

Ekpa has publicly expressed support for Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), claiming to be continuing his mission for Biafran independence and even styling himself as “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile.

Interestingly, IPOB has distanced itself from Ekpa.

In a public statement, the group clarified that he is not a member, does not speak for them, and should not be linked to Kanu or IPOB’s leadership.

They emphasized their commitment to peaceful advocacy and lawful self-determination.

— Yetunde B, reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog.

pic.twitter.com/iER6B4Fp8a

— Yeyetunde’s Blog (@YeyetundeB) September 1, 2025