Finnish prosecutors are requesting a six-year prison sentence for Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafran separatist figure, if he is found guilty of terrorism-related offences.
Ekpa appeared on Friday before the Päijät-Häme District Court for a preparatory hearing. According to Finnish broadcaster Yle, prosecutors presented what they called significant digital evidence linking Ekpa to the alleged crimes.
“We possess extensive material concerning the suspect’s online activity and communications,” said state prosecutor Sampsa Hakala.
Authorities acknowledged difficulties in gathering credible intelligence, especially since many of the alleged offences took place in Africa.
In addition to the terrorism charges, Ekpa faces allegations of aggravated tax fraud and suspicion of attempting to procure weapons for pro-Biafran groups.
Ekpa, represented by attorney Kaarle Gummerus, has denied all charges. His lawyer also challenged the reliability of evidence reportedly provided by Nigerian authorities.
According to Yle, Ekpa remains in custody on charges of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.
The case stems from a collaborative investigation between Finnish and Nigerian law enforcement. Ekpa was arrested in November 2024, alongside four others, over allegations of inciting violence and financing terrorist activities.
Finnish police have accused Ekpa who refers to himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile of using social media platforms to encourage violent attacks in Nigeria’s South-East region, targeting both civilians and security personnel.