In a new development, controversial Biafra separatist Simon Ekpa has appointed a new legal representative ahead of his scheduled trial in Finland, set to begin in June 2025.
Sources familiar with the case confirmed that Ekpa changed his legal counsel following the retirement of his previous lawyer. His new attorney, Kaarle Gummerus, has acknowledged receipt of the pre-trial case file and confirmed that his client is preparing to appear before the court as required.
Speaking to the press, Gummerus stated, “We are reviewing the case documents thoroughly and preparing our legal strategy. Mr. Ekpa will appear in court in June 2025 to face the charges against him.”
Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested in November 2024 by Finnish law enforcement. His arrest came after months of mounting international concern over his activities, which authorities say included the dissemination of terrorist propaganda and incitement to violence through social media platforms.
The District Court of Päijät-Häme had ordered his detention shortly after his arrest, citing credible evidence linking him to online incitement that allegedly contributed to unrest and attacks in Nigeria’s South-East region.
Ekpa continues to claim that his actions are centered around peaceful advocacy for Biafra’s independence, but Finnish prosecutors argue that his rhetoric crossed the line into incitement to terrorism — a serious offense under Finnish and international law.
Observers say the trial could set a legal precedent for handling cases of cross-border digital extremism and politically motivated propaganda.
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