Fresh developments have surfaced regarding Simon Ekpa, the self- proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra separatist movement, currently detained by Finnish authorities in Kylmäkoski Prison, a high- security facility.
Amid these reports, Ngozi Orabueze, recently declared as Biafra’ s Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Staff, has issued a robust statement refuting the allegations and charges against Ekpa. Orabueze criticized the Finnish authorities’ actions, accusing them of acting on what she described as ” fabricated lies peddled by the Nigerian government.”
She claimed that no formal charges or convictions have been established against Ekpa and alleged that the Nigerian government is attempting to link him to violent separatist activities in southeastern Nigeria to justify its accusations of incitement.
Orabueze dismissed reports circulating in Nigerian media as ” zoo media propaganda” and urged Biafra supporters to disregard them. Contrary to these assertions, Finnish and international media reports indicate that Ekpa and four associates were arrested in November over allegations of inciting violence and spreading terrorist propaganda.
Finnish authorities have accused Ekpa of using his social media platforms to promote separatist activities, including calls to boycott Nigerian elections and supporting violent acts.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation confirmed that these actions are part of an ongoing probe into his activities, which they claim have fueled unrest in Nigeria’ s southeast.
In a related development, Finnish authorities have frozen Ekpa’ s assets as part of their investigation, further complicating the case. His detention in Kylmäkoski Prison, known for its rigorous security measures, has drawn both domestic and international attention.
While supporters question the legality of his detention, critics point to evidence linking him to activities that allegedly incited violence in Nigeria.
This case underscores the escalating tensions between separatist movements and the Nigerian government, as well as the intricate legal challenges involved in addressing transnational offenses involving dual citizens.
As the situation develops, international observers are closely monitoring the contrasting narratives. While Biafra activists maintain Ekpa’ s innocence, Finnish law enforcement continues to assert the legitimacy of their actions, citing substantial evidence.
The outcome of this high- profile case will likely have broader implications for human rights, freedom of expression, and international justice.