Finnish District Court Convicts Simon Ekpa, Sentences Him to Six Years
Lahti, Finland — The Päijät-Häme District Court in Lahti on Monday found the Nigerian-born Finnish resident Simon Ekpa guilty of terrorism-related offenses, aggravated tax fraud and violations of Finland’s Lawyers Act. The ruling came after hours of proceedings, featuring the verdict, sentencing arguments and reactions from both sides.
Key Points
- Verdict: Guilty of participating in a terrorist group and publicly inciting crimes for terrorist purposes.
- Additional convictions: Aggravated tax fraud and breach of Finland’s Lawyers Act.
- Sentence: Six years’ imprisonment imposed by the Päijät-Häme District Court.
- Case context: Activities linked to separatist aims in Nigeria’s southeast and online incitement from Finland.
- Appeal: The ruling can be appealed.
What Happened in Court
The court announced that Ekpa had participated in a terrorist organisation and incited crimes for terrorist purposes, carried out from Finland to influence events in Nigeria. Judges also convicted him of aggravated tax fraud and violations of legal practice provisions. After mitigation and aggravation arguments, the court imposed a six-year prison term. The decision can still be appealed.
Reactions and Next Steps
Nigeria’s Federal Government welcomed the conviction, describing it as a landmark judgment and pledging continued cooperation with Finland. Defense lawyers confirmed they may appeal the verdict, which would move to a higher court.
Sources: Yle News, Helsinki Times, Associated Press, BusinessDay Nigeria