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== Early life, education and career ==
== Early life, education and career ==
Ekpa Simon Njoku was born on 21 March 1985, in [[Ohaukwu]], [[Ebonyi State]], Nigeria.<ref name="Vanguard">{{Cite web |last=Sobowale |first=Rasheed |date=16 April 2022 |title=Violence in South East: Who's Simon Ekpa? |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/04/violence-in-south-east-whos-simon-ekpa/ |access-date=22 January 2023 |website=[[Vanguard (Nigeria)|Vanguard]]}}</ref><ref name=TheCable/> After he completed his high school education, he enrolled at [[Aberystwyth University]] for a Master's degree in Law. He also went to [[Santiago Canyon College]] for additional lectures.{{clarify|date=August 2023}}<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mongina |first=Night |date=2023-07-05 |title=Simon Ekpa's biography: age, wife, net worth, state of origin |url=https://www.legit.ng/ask-legit/biographies/1541221-simon-ekpas-biography-age-wife-net-worth-state-origin/ |access-date=2023-07-26 |website=Legit.ng - Nigeria news. |language=en}}</ref> As a child, Ekpa was a local athlete but later developed to a professional, winning the 100 meters silver medal for Nigeria at the [[2003 African Junior Athletics Championships]] in [[Cameroon]].<ref name=TheCable/> Since 2007, Ekpa has lived with his family in [[Lahti]], Finland, where he learned [[Finnish language|Finnish]] and did his military service.<ref name="Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa">{{cite news |title=Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018520 |access-date=29 December 2023 |work=[[Yle]] |date=17 February 2023 |language=en}}</ref> He was a candidate in the [[2022 Finnish county elections]] under the [[National Coalition Party of Finland]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Lahtelainen kunnallispoliitikko johtaa aseellista kapinaa Nigeriassa – määrännyt miljoonat ihmiset boikotoimaan vaaleja|url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018145|first=Jani|last=Parkkari|publisher=Yle|date=16 February 2023|access-date=17 February 2023|lang=fi}}</ref> {{As of|2023}}, he is a city councillor in Lahti.<ref name="Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa" />
Ekpa Simon Njoku was born on 21 March 1985, in [[Ohaukwu]], [[Ebonyi State]], Nigeria.<ref name="Vanguard">{{Cite web |last=Sobowale |first=Rasheed |date=16 April 2022 |title=Violence in South East: Who's Simon Ekpa? |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/04/violence-in-south-east-whos-simon-ekpa/ |access-date=22 January 2023 |website=[[Vanguard (Nigeria)|Vanguard]]}}</ref><ref name=TheCable/> After he completed his high school education, he enrolled at [[Aberystwyth University]] for a Master's degree in Law. He also went to [[Santiago Canyon College]] for additional lectures.{{clarify|date=August 2023}}<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mongina |first=Night |date=2023-07-05 |title=Simon Ekpa's biography: age, wife, net worth, state of origin |url=https://www.legit.ng/ask-legit/biographies/1541221-simon-ekpas-biography-age-wife-net-worth-state-origin/ |access-date=2023-07-26 |website=Legit.ng - Nigeria news. |language=en}}</ref> As a child, Ekpa was a local athlete but later developed to a professional, winning the 100 meters silver medal for Nigeria at the [[2003 African Junior Athletics Championships]] in [[Cameroon]].<ref name=TheCable/> Since 2007, Ekpa has lived with his family in [[Lahti]], Finland, where he learned [[Finnish language|Finnish]] and did his military service.<ref name="Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa">{{cite news |title=Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018520 |access-date=29 December 2023 |work=[[Yle]] |date=17 February 2023 |language=en}}</ref> He left athetics because of knee injuries.<ref name="Suomen Kuvalehti 2024-04-14" /> He was a candidate in the [[2022 Finnish county elections]] under the [[National Coalition Party of Finland]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Lahtelainen kunnallispoliitikko johtaa aseellista kapinaa Nigeriassa – määrännyt miljoonat ihmiset boikotoimaan vaaleja|url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018145|first=Jani|last=Parkkari|publisher=Yle|date=16 February 2023|access-date=17 February 2023|lang=fi}}</ref> {{As of|2023}}, he is a city councillor in Lahti.<ref name="Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa" />


Ekpa served in the [[Finnish Defence Forces|Finnish military]] at the [[Häme]] Regiment in [[Hennala]] (2013) as well as a reservist in the [[Finnish Army]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-17 |title=Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018520 |access-date=2024-01-02 |website=News |language=en}}</ref>
Ekpa served in the [[Finnish Defence Forces|Finnish military]] at the [[Häme]] Regiment in [[Hennala]] (2013) as well as a reservist in the [[Finnish Army]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-17 |title=Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018520 |access-date=2024-01-02 |website=News |language=en}}</ref>
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Ekpa was noticed by Nigerian media in late 2019, when he posted a video claiming that Nigerian soldiers had been killed by [[Boko Haram]]. According to a Nigerian rights attorney, the purpose was to "disillusion Nigerians especially soldiers to resign from the Army".<ref name="Tribune Online 2019-12-15">{{Cite web |last=Rasak |first=Adekunle |date=2019-12-15 |title=Nigerians should discountenance video on alleged capture of soldiers ― Rights Attorney |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/nigerians-should-discountenance-video-on-alleged-capture-of-soldiers-%E2%80%95-rights-attorney/ |access-date=2024-04-19 |website=[[Nigerian Tribune]] |language=en-GB}}</ref>
Ekpa was noticed by Nigerian media in late 2019, when he posted a video claiming that Nigerian soldiers had been killed by [[Boko Haram]]. According to a Nigerian rights attorney, the purpose was to "disillusion Nigerians especially soldiers to resign from the Army".<ref name="Tribune Online 2019-12-15">{{Cite web |last=Rasak |first=Adekunle |date=2019-12-15 |title=Nigerians should discountenance video on alleged capture of soldiers ― Rights Attorney |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/nigerians-should-discountenance-video-on-alleged-capture-of-soldiers-%E2%80%95-rights-attorney/ |access-date=2024-04-19 |website=[[Nigerian Tribune]] |language=en-GB}}</ref>


In July 2021, Ekpa became the lead broadcaster for [[Radio Biafra]], associated with the separatist organisation [[Indigenous People of Biafra]] (IPOB) after the arrest of its leader, [[Nnamdi Kanu]].<ref name="TheCable" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-21 |title=Ihe Finland kwuru maka ebubo na Simon Ekpa na-akpalite tigbuo-zogbuo n'Ọwụwa Anyanwụ |url=https://www.bbc.com/igbo/articles/cxej6l37160o |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=BBC News Ìgbò |language=ig}}</ref> However, Ekpa was dismissed in the same month,<ref>{{cite news |date=22 July 2021 |title=IPOB sacks Kanu’s successor in Radio Biafra |url=https://sunnewsonline.com/ipob-sacks-kanus-successor-in-radio-biafra/ |newspaper=The Sun}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Njoku |first=Lawrence |date=22 July 2021 |title=IPOB sacks Simon Ekpa as Radio Biafra broadcaster |url=https://guardian.ng/news/ipob-sacks-simon-ekpa-as-radio-biafra-broadcaster/ |access-date=22 January 2023 |website=[[The Guardian (Nigeria)|The Guardian]] |location=[[Enugu]]}}</ref> for violation of the rules of the organisation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reporters |first=Sahara |date=26 May 2022 |title=EXCLUSIVE: IPOB Accuses Nnamdi Kanu's Self-proclaimed Disciple, Simon Ekpa Of Working With Nigerian Politicians, Security Agencies To Kill Igbo People |url=https://saharareporters.com/2022/05/26/exclusive-ipob-accuses-nnamdi-kanu%E2%80%99s-self-proclaimed-disciple-simon-ekpa-working-nigerian |access-date=22 January 2023 |website=[[Sahara Reporters]] |location=[[New York (state)|New York]]}}</ref> In 2022, IPOB accused Ekpa of illegal activities and stated that IPOB was a peaceful organization.<ref name="Daily News Reporters 2 April 2022">{{cite news |last1=Samuel |first1=Okonkwo |date=2 April 2022 |title=IPOB Reveals Name/Face Behind Unknown Gunmen In South East - Daily News Reporters |url=https://dailynewsreporters.com/ipob-reveals-name-face-behind-unknown-gunmen-in-south-east/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=Daily News Reporters - Voice of the Southeast}}</ref> The ''[[Daily Post (Nigeria)|Daily Post]]'' stated in July 2023 that Ekpa led a faction of IPOB.<ref name="Daily Post 5 July 2023">{{cite news |last1=Ani |first1=Emmanuel |date=5 July 2023 |title=Tension in Enugu as unknown gunmen enforce sit-at-home |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/07/05/tension-in-enugu-as-unknown-gunmen-enforce-sit-at-home/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=[[Daily Post (Nigeria)|Daily Post]]}}</ref>
In July 2021, Ekpa became the lead broadcaster for [[Radio Biafra]], associated with the separatist organisation [[Indigenous People of Biafra]] (IPOB) after the arrest of its leader, [[Nnamdi Kanu]].<ref name="TheCable" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-21 |title=Ihe Finland kwuru maka ebubo na Simon Ekpa na-akpalite tigbuo-zogbuo n'Ọwụwa Anyanwụ |url=https://www.bbc.com/igbo/articles/cxej6l37160o |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=BBC News Ìgbò |language=ig}}</ref> However, Ekpa was dismissed in the same month,<ref>{{cite news |date=22 July 2021 |title=IPOB sacks Kanu’s successor in Radio Biafra |url=https://sunnewsonline.com/ipob-sacks-kanus-successor-in-radio-biafra/ |newspaper=The Sun}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Njoku |first=Lawrence |date=22 July 2021 |title=IPOB sacks Simon Ekpa as Radio Biafra broadcaster |url=https://guardian.ng/news/ipob-sacks-simon-ekpa-as-radio-biafra-broadcaster/ |access-date=22 January 2023 |website=[[The Guardian (Nigeria)|The Guardian]] |location=[[Enugu]]}}</ref> for violation of the rules of the organisation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reporters |first=Sahara |date=26 May 2022 |title=EXCLUSIVE: IPOB Accuses Nnamdi Kanu's Self-proclaimed Disciple, Simon Ekpa Of Working With Nigerian Politicians, Security Agencies To Kill Igbo People |url=https://saharareporters.com/2022/05/26/exclusive-ipob-accuses-nnamdi-kanu%E2%80%99s-self-proclaimed-disciple-simon-ekpa-working-nigerian |access-date=22 January 2023 |website=[[Sahara Reporters]] |location=[[New York (state)|New York]]}}</ref> In 2022, IPOB accused Ekpa of illegal activities and stated that IPOB was a peaceful organization.<ref name="Daily News Reporters 2 April 2022">{{cite news |last1=Samuel |first1=Okonkwo |date=2 April 2022 |title=IPOB Reveals Name/Face Behind Unknown Gunmen In South East - Daily News Reporters |url=https://dailynewsreporters.com/ipob-reveals-name-face-behind-unknown-gunmen-in-south-east/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=Daily News Reporters - Voice of the Southeast}}</ref> The ''[[Daily Post (Nigeria)|Daily Post]]'' stated in July 2023 that Ekpa led a faction of IPOB.<ref name="Daily Post 5 July 2023">{{cite news |last1=Ani |first1=Emmanuel |date=5 July 2023 |title=Tension in Enugu as unknown gunmen enforce sit-at-home |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/07/05/tension-in-enugu-as-unknown-gunmen-enforce-sit-at-home/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=[[Daily Post (Nigeria)|Daily Post]]}}</ref> According to Ekpa, IPOB was dissolved in a vote, renamed "Autopilot", and he became it's spokesman. [[Zubairu Dada]], Nigerian minister, said the same year that "When [Ekpa] gives instructions, destruction follows. They cause killing, maiming, fires, whatever."<ref name="Suomen Kuvalehti 2024-04-14" />


According to a report from [[Yle]], Ekpa's activism started to gather mainstream attention in February 2023. The local [[National Coalition Party|Kokoomus]] parti in Lahti stated that they have started an internal investigation of these claims. Orji Anya Odim, representing the association Igbo Union Finland, stated "He should stop inciting hatred and provoking. Ekpa does not represent the [[Igbo people]] of Finland".<ref>Original quote "Hänen tulisi lopettaa vihan lietsominen ja provosointi. Ekpa ei edusta Suomen igboja", https://yle.fi/a/74-20018561</ref> The Nigerian government has also demanded Finland stop Ekpa's activities.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-17 |title=Hämeen kokoomus selvittää separatistijohtaja Simon Ekpan toimintaa Nigeriassa – Suomessa asuvat maanmiehet irtisanoutuvat väkivallasta |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018561 |access-date=2023-02-20 |website=Yle Uutiset |language=fi}}</ref> Yle interviews with residents of [[Enugu]] suggested extensive fear of Ekpa and compliance with his "stay at home" orders involving the [[2023 Nigerian elections]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-18 |title=Yle Nigeriassa: Miljoonat pysyvät kotona joka maanantai, kun Simon Ekpa Lahdesta käskee – pelko on seudulla kouriintuntuvaa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018619 |access-date=2023-02-20 |website=Yle Uutiset |language=fi}}</ref> In late February 2023 Yle reported Ekpa is being suspected of having raised funds in an illegal manner by the Finnish [[National Bureau of Investigation (Finland)|National Bureau of Investigation]].<ref>{{cite web |date=24 February 2023 |title=Poliisi epäilee lahtelaista Simon Ekpaa rahankeräysrikoksesta – KRP selvittää myös nigerialaiskapinallisen toimia sosiaalisessa mediassa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20019590}}</ref>
According to a report from [[Yle]], Ekpa's activism started to gather mainstream attention in February 2023. The local [[National Coalition Party|Kokoomus]] parti in Lahti stated that they have started an internal investigation of these claims. Orji Anya Odim, representing the association Igbo Union Finland, stated "He should stop inciting hatred and provoking. Ekpa does not represent the [[Igbo people]] of Finland".<ref>Original quote "Hänen tulisi lopettaa vihan lietsominen ja provosointi. Ekpa ei edusta Suomen igboja", https://yle.fi/a/74-20018561</ref> The Nigerian government has also demanded Finland stop Ekpa's activities.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-17 |title=Hämeen kokoomus selvittää separatistijohtaja Simon Ekpan toimintaa Nigeriassa – Suomessa asuvat maanmiehet irtisanoutuvat väkivallasta |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018561 |access-date=2023-02-20 |website=Yle Uutiset |language=fi}}</ref> Yle interviews with residents of [[Enugu]] suggested extensive fear of Ekpa and compliance with his "stay at home" orders involving the [[2023 Nigerian elections]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-18 |title=Yle Nigeriassa: Miljoonat pysyvät kotona joka maanantai, kun Simon Ekpa Lahdesta käskee – pelko on seudulla kouriintuntuvaa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20018619 |access-date=2023-02-20 |website=Yle Uutiset |language=fi}}</ref> In late February 2023 Yle reported Ekpa is being suspected of having raised funds in an illegal manner by the Finnish [[National Bureau of Investigation (Finland)|National Bureau of Investigation]].<ref>{{cite web |date=24 February 2023 |title=Poliisi epäilee lahtelaista Simon Ekpaa rahankeräysrikoksesta – KRP selvittää myös nigerialaiskapinallisen toimia sosiaalisessa mediassa |url=https://yle.fi/a/74-20019590}}</ref>
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In December 2022, Ekpa ordered a five-day sit at home civil disobedience campaign<ref>{{Cite web |last=Obeta |first=Okechukwu |date=2022-12-07 |title=Ignore 5-day Sit-at-home Order, IPOB Tells South East Residents |url=https://leadership.ng/ignore-5-day-sit-at-home-order-ipob-tells-south-east-residents/ |access-date=2023-06-16 |language=en-US}}</ref> in the southeast and parts of southern Nigeria<ref>{{Cite web |last=Osaji |first=Sharon |date=2022-12-15 |title=Ekpa ends sit-at-home, says no elections in South-East |url=https://punchng.com/just-in-ekpa-ends-sit-at-home-says-no-elections-in-south-east/ |access-date=2023-06-16 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref> from 9 to 14 December 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sunday |first=Ochogwu |date=2022-12-06 |title=No 5-day sit-at-home in South-East – IPOB counters Simon Ekpa |url=https://dailypost.ng/2022/12/06/no-5-day-sit-at-home-in-south-east-ipob-counters-simon-ekpa/ |access-date=2023-06-15 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> On 14 June 2023, Ekpa announced a week-long sit at home campaign from 3 to 10 July 2023,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ariemu |first=Ogaga |date=2023-06-14 |title=Ekpa announces weeklong sit-at-home to demand release of Nnamdi Kanu |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/06/14/ekpa-announces-weeklong-sit-at-home-to-demand-release-of-nnamdi-kanu/ |access-date=2023-06-15 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> which according to ''The Whistler'' recorded 70% compliance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=IPOB: Ekpa Alleges S'East Governors Sponsored Terrorists To Attack Him In Finland – The Whistler Newspaper |url=https://thewhistler.ng/ipob-ekpa-alleges-seast-governors-sponsored-terrorists-to-attack-him-in-finland/amp/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=thewhistler.ng}}</ref> The sit at home's have been enforced by gunmen.<ref name="Daily Post 5 July 2023" /><ref name="African Examiner 10 December 2022">{{cite news |date=10 December 2022 |title=Simon Ekpa Sit-At-Home: Gunmen Attack, Set Police Van Ablaze In Enugu {{!}} African Examiner |url=https://www.africanexaminer.com/simon-ekpa-sit-at-home-gunmen-attack-set-police-van-ablaze-in-enugu/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=African Examiner}}</ref> Ekpa has denied any violence against civilians. In 2023, he declared that no elections would be held in the region that year.<ref name="YLE February 2023 Simon Ekpa article" />
In December 2022, Ekpa ordered a five-day sit at home civil disobedience campaign<ref>{{Cite web |last=Obeta |first=Okechukwu |date=2022-12-07 |title=Ignore 5-day Sit-at-home Order, IPOB Tells South East Residents |url=https://leadership.ng/ignore-5-day-sit-at-home-order-ipob-tells-south-east-residents/ |access-date=2023-06-16 |language=en-US}}</ref> in the southeast and parts of southern Nigeria<ref>{{Cite web |last=Osaji |first=Sharon |date=2022-12-15 |title=Ekpa ends sit-at-home, says no elections in South-East |url=https://punchng.com/just-in-ekpa-ends-sit-at-home-says-no-elections-in-south-east/ |access-date=2023-06-16 |website=Punch Newspapers |language=en-US}}</ref> from 9 to 14 December 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sunday |first=Ochogwu |date=2022-12-06 |title=No 5-day sit-at-home in South-East – IPOB counters Simon Ekpa |url=https://dailypost.ng/2022/12/06/no-5-day-sit-at-home-in-south-east-ipob-counters-simon-ekpa/ |access-date=2023-06-15 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> On 14 June 2023, Ekpa announced a week-long sit at home campaign from 3 to 10 July 2023,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ariemu |first=Ogaga |date=2023-06-14 |title=Ekpa announces weeklong sit-at-home to demand release of Nnamdi Kanu |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/06/14/ekpa-announces-weeklong-sit-at-home-to-demand-release-of-nnamdi-kanu/ |access-date=2023-06-15 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> which according to ''The Whistler'' recorded 70% compliance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=IPOB: Ekpa Alleges S'East Governors Sponsored Terrorists To Attack Him In Finland – The Whistler Newspaper |url=https://thewhistler.ng/ipob-ekpa-alleges-seast-governors-sponsored-terrorists-to-attack-him-in-finland/amp/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=thewhistler.ng}}</ref> The sit at home's have been enforced by gunmen.<ref name="Daily Post 5 July 2023" /><ref name="African Examiner 10 December 2022">{{cite news |date=10 December 2022 |title=Simon Ekpa Sit-At-Home: Gunmen Attack, Set Police Van Ablaze In Enugu {{!}} African Examiner |url=https://www.africanexaminer.com/simon-ekpa-sit-at-home-gunmen-attack-set-police-van-ablaze-in-enugu/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=African Examiner}}</ref> Ekpa has denied any violence against civilians. In 2023, he declared that no elections would be held in the region that year.<ref name="YLE February 2023 Simon Ekpa article" />


In October 2023, Ekpa and cabinet members of BRGIE hosted a three-day convention in [[Helsinki]], Finland, where a possible Biafran [[Referendum]] was discussed with participants and attendants from Biafra.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ariemu |first=Ogaga |date=2023-10-19 |title=Simon Ekpa hosts three-day extraordinary conference on Biafra Referendum |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/10/19/simon-ekpa-hosts-three-day-extraordinary-conference-on-biafra-referendum/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Okafor |first=Emeka |date=2023-10-22 |title=The Biafra-Helsinki Declaration Convention |url=https://dotlandmedia.com/the-biafra-helsinki-declaration-convention/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Dotland Media |language=en-GB}}</ref> Ekpa also announced the formation of the Biafra Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group fighting for secession from Nigeria.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Biafra Liberation Army, Resistance Fighters will protect Igbos in southeast - Simon Ekpa |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/10/biafra-liberation-army-resistance-fighters-will-protect-igbos-in-southeast-simon-ekpa/ |website=Vanguard News}}</ref> BLA was suspected to have killed a police in [[Imo State]] in November.<ref name="The Guardian 20 February 2024">{{cite news |last1=Agberebi |first1=James |date=28 November 2023 |title=Gunmen kill DPO, inspector in Imo |url=https://guardian.ng/news/gunmen-kill-dpo-inspector-in-imo/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=[[The Guardian (Nigeria)|The Guardian]]}}</ref><ref name="New Telegraph 28 November 2023">{{cite news |last1=Jimoh |first1=Taiwo |date=28 November 2023 |title=UPDATE: Imo CP Hunt For Killers Of DPO, Orderly Murder |url=https://newtelegraphng.com/update-imo-cp-hunt-for-killers-of-dpo-orderly-murder/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=[[New Telegraph]]}}</ref>
In October 2023, Ekpa and cabinet members of BRGIE hosted a three-day convention in [[Helsinki]], Finland, where a possible Biafran [[Referendum]] was discussed with participants and attendants from Biafra.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ariemu |first=Ogaga |date=2023-10-19 |title=Simon Ekpa hosts three-day extraordinary conference on Biafra Referendum |url=https://dailypost.ng/2023/10/19/simon-ekpa-hosts-three-day-extraordinary-conference-on-biafra-referendum/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Okafor |first=Emeka |date=2023-10-22 |title=The Biafra-Helsinki Declaration Convention |url=https://dotlandmedia.com/the-biafra-helsinki-declaration-convention/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Dotland Media |language=en-GB}}</ref> Ekpa also announced the formation of the Biafra Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group fighting for secession from Nigeria.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Biafra Liberation Army, Resistance Fighters will protect Igbos in southeast - Simon Ekpa |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/10/biafra-liberation-army-resistance-fighters-will-protect-igbos-in-southeast-simon-ekpa/ |website=Vanguard News}}</ref> BLA was suspected to have killed a police in [[Imo State]] in November.<ref name="The Guardian 20 February 2024">{{cite news |last1=Agberebi |first1=James |date=28 November 2023 |title=Gunmen kill DPO, inspector in Imo |url=https://guardian.ng/news/gunmen-kill-dpo-inspector-in-imo/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=[[The Guardian (Nigeria)|The Guardian]]}}</ref><ref name="New Telegraph 28 November 2023">{{cite news |last1=Jimoh |first1=Taiwo |date=28 November 2023 |title=UPDATE: Imo CP Hunt For Killers Of DPO, Orderly Murder |url=https://newtelegraphng.com/update-imo-cp-hunt-for-killers-of-dpo-orderly-murder/ |access-date=20 February 2024 |work=[[New Telegraph]]}}</ref> According to Ekpa, it has tens of thousands of soldiers.<ref name="Suomen Kuvalehti 2024-04-14" />


The BRGIE has stated that it intends to issue a "declaration of Biafra independent state" in late 2024.<ref name="Suomen Kuvalehti 2024-04-14">{{Cite web |last=Rämö |first=Aurora |date=2024-03-21 |title=”Biafran pääministeri” asuu Lahdessa – Erikoinen kokoomusvaikuttaja aiheutti diplomaattisen selkkauksen |url=https://suomenkuvalehti.fi/paajutut/biafran-paaministeri-asuu-lahdessa-erikoinen-kokoomusvaikuttaja-aiheutti-diplomaattisen-selkkauksen/ |access-date=2024-04-14 |website=[[Suomen Kuvalehti]] |language=fi|trans-title=
The BRGIE has stated that it intends to issue a "declaration of Biafra independent state" in late 2024.<ref name="Suomen Kuvalehti 2024-04-14">{{Cite web |last=Rämö |first=Aurora |date=2024-03-21 |title=”Biafran pääministeri” asuu Lahdessa – Erikoinen kokoomusvaikuttaja aiheutti diplomaattisen selkkauksen |url=https://suomenkuvalehti.fi/paajutut/biafran-paaministeri-asuu-lahdessa-erikoinen-kokoomusvaikuttaja-aiheutti-diplomaattisen-selkkauksen/ |access-date=2024-04-14 |website=[[Suomen Kuvalehti]] |language=fi|trans-title=

Revision as of 17:09, 25 April 2024

Not to be confused with Simeon Ekpe.
Simon Ekpa
see caption
Ekpa in 2023
Born (1985-03-21) 21 March 1985 (age 39)[1]
Ohaukwu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
CitizenshipFinnish
Occupations
  • Lawyer
  • politician
Years active2019–present[2]
Organizations
  • Biafra Republic Government in Exile
  • Biafra Liberation Army
Political partyNational Coalition Party
MovementLiberation of Biafra
AwardsAmbassador for Peace

Ekpa Simon Njoku,[3] generally known as Simon Ekpa (born 21 March 1985) is a Finnish local politician, lawyer and former Nigerian athlete.[4] He appointed himself Prime Minister of the organization he leads, the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE),[5] which was founded in 2023. It works for the total independence and reinstatement[6] of Biafra, a short-lived state in West Africa, which existed from 1967 until 1970.[7][8][9][10][11]

Early life, education and career

Ekpa Simon Njoku was born on 21 March 1985, in Ohaukwu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.[12][1] After he completed his high school education, he enrolled at Aberystwyth University for a Master's degree in Law. He also went to Santiago Canyon College for additional lectures.[clarification needed][13] As a child, Ekpa was a local athlete but later developed to a professional, winning the 100 meters silver medal for Nigeria at the 2003 African Junior Athletics Championships in Cameroon.[1] Since 2007, Ekpa has lived with his family in Lahti, Finland, where he learned Finnish and did his military service.[14] He left athetics because of knee injuries.[15] He was a candidate in the 2022 Finnish county elections under the National Coalition Party of Finland.[16] As of 2023, he is a city councillor in Lahti.[14]

Ekpa served in the Finnish military at the Häme Regiment in Hennala (2013) as well as a reservist in the Finnish Army.[17]

Activism and separatism

Ekpa was noticed by Nigerian media in late 2019, when he posted a video claiming that Nigerian soldiers had been killed by Boko Haram. According to a Nigerian rights attorney, the purpose was to "disillusion Nigerians especially soldiers to resign from the Army".[2]

In July 2021, Ekpa became the lead broadcaster for Radio Biafra, associated with the separatist organisation Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) after the arrest of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.[1][18] However, Ekpa was dismissed in the same month,[19][20] for violation of the rules of the organisation.[21] In 2022, IPOB accused Ekpa of illegal activities and stated that IPOB was a peaceful organization.[22] The Daily Post stated in July 2023 that Ekpa led a faction of IPOB.[23] According to Ekpa, IPOB was dissolved in a vote, renamed "Autopilot", and he became it's spokesman. Zubairu Dada, Nigerian minister, said the same year that "When [Ekpa] gives instructions, destruction follows. They cause killing, maiming, fires, whatever."[15]

According to a report from Yle, Ekpa's activism started to gather mainstream attention in February 2023. The local Kokoomus parti in Lahti stated that they have started an internal investigation of these claims. Orji Anya Odim, representing the association Igbo Union Finland, stated "He should stop inciting hatred and provoking. Ekpa does not represent the Igbo people of Finland".[24] The Nigerian government has also demanded Finland stop Ekpa's activities.[25] Yle interviews with residents of Enugu suggested extensive fear of Ekpa and compliance with his "stay at home" orders involving the 2023 Nigerian elections.[26] In late February 2023 Yle reported Ekpa is being suspected of having raised funds in an illegal manner by the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation.[27]

Yle said in February 2023 that "estimates of the number of gunmen loyal to him vary greatly, from hundreds to tens of thousands, and his exact position in the separatist groups is unverified."[9] In April 2023, he announced his appointment as the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE).[28] Nigerian news media have variously referred to him as "Prime Minister" or "self-acclaimed Prime Minister" of the government-in-exile.[29][30][31][32] Ekpa stated in 2023 that "Biafra Republic Government In-Exile is registered, approved and legal. Agent of Nigeria, take note!"[33] IPOB called the BRGIE "double agents sponsored by the Nigerian government to ridicule the IPOB movement".[34]

In December 2022, Ekpa ordered a five-day sit at home civil disobedience campaign[35] in the southeast and parts of southern Nigeria[36] from 9 to 14 December 2022.[37] On 14 June 2023, Ekpa announced a week-long sit at home campaign from 3 to 10 July 2023,[38] which according to The Whistler recorded 70% compliance.[39] The sit at home's have been enforced by gunmen.[23][40] Ekpa has denied any violence against civilians. In 2023, he declared that no elections would be held in the region that year.[9]

In October 2023, Ekpa and cabinet members of BRGIE hosted a three-day convention in Helsinki, Finland, where a possible Biafran Referendum was discussed with participants and attendants from Biafra.[41][42] Ekpa also announced the formation of the Biafra Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group fighting for secession from Nigeria.[43] BLA was suspected to have killed a police in Imo State in November.[44][45] According to Ekpa, it has tens of thousands of soldiers.[15]

The BRGIE has stated that it intends to issue a "declaration of Biafra independent state" in late 2024.[15][46] In March 2024, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) declared Ekpa and more than 90 others "wanted" for "terrorism, kidnapping and other crimes."[47][48][49]

Awards

On 25 May 2023, the Universal Peace Federation awarded Ekpa Ambassador for Peace at the African Day Celebration in Helsinki, Finland.[7]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d TheCable (8 December 2021). "CLOSE-UP: Simon Ekpa, Nnamdi Kanu's Finland-based disciple and king of fake news". TheCable. Retrieved 22 January 2023.
  2. ^ a b Rasak, Adekunle (2019-12-15). "Nigerians should discountenance video on alleged capture of soldiers ― Rights Attorney". Nigerian Tribune. Retrieved 2024-04-19.
  3. ^ "Athlete Profile". www.thepowerof10.info. Retrieved 2024-04-19.
  4. ^ "Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa". News. 2023-02-17. Retrieved 2023-12-31.
  5. ^ Rämö, Aurora (2024-03-21). ""Biafran pääministeri" asuu Lahdessa – Erikoinen kokoomusvaikuttaja aiheutti diplomaattisen selkkauksen". Suomenkuvalehti.fi. Retrieved 2024-03-24.
  6. ^ "December's Biafra Declaration: Highest historical quest for freedom – BRGIE – Disclosure News". Retrieved 2024-04-17.
  7. ^ a b "Simon Ekpa sai "rauhanlähettiläs-palkinnon" Helsingissä – Lahdessa asuva liikemies tunnetaan nigerialaisten lietsomisesta kapinaan". Yle Uutiset (in Finnish). 2023-06-01. Retrieved 2023-06-09.
  8. ^ "Simon Ekpa: Nigeria's Ipob faction leader arrested in Finland". BBC News. 2023-02-23. Retrieved 2023-06-12.
  9. ^ a b c "Lahtelainen kunnallispoliitikko johtaa aseellista kapinaa Nigeriassa – määrännyt miljoonat ihmiset boikotoimaan vaaleja". Yle Uutiset (in Finnish). 2023-02-16. Retrieved 2023-12-28.
  10. ^ Ariemu, Ogaga (2023-10-21). "Simon Ekpa accuses Nigerian government of injustice against Igbos, insists on referendum". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 2023-12-28.
  11. ^ Ariemu, Ogaga (24 May 2023). "Nnamdi Kanu in severe pain, needs urgent ear surgery – Ekpa raises alarm". Daily Post. Retrieved 10 June 2023.
  12. ^ Sobowale, Rasheed (16 April 2022). "Violence in South East: Who's Simon Ekpa?". Vanguard. Retrieved 22 January 2023.
  13. ^ Mongina, Night (2023-07-05). "Simon Ekpa's biography: age, wife, net worth, state of origin". Legit.ng - Nigeria news. Retrieved 2023-07-26.
  14. ^ a b "Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa". Yle. 17 February 2023. Retrieved 29 December 2023.
  15. ^ a b c d Rämö, Aurora (2024-03-21). ""Biafran pääministeri" asuu Lahdessa – Erikoinen kokoomusvaikuttaja aiheutti diplomaattisen selkkauksen" [The "prime minister of Biafra" lives in Lahti - A peculiar coalition influencer caused a diplomatic row [Google translate]]. Suomen Kuvalehti (in Finnish). Retrieved 2024-04-14.
  16. ^ Parkkari, Jani (16 February 2023). "Lahtelainen kunnallispoliitikko johtaa aseellista kapinaa Nigeriassa – määrännyt miljoonat ihmiset boikotoimaan vaaleja" (in Finnish). Yle. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
  17. ^ "Nigeria asks Finland to clamp down on Lahti resident and Biafra separatist leader Simon Ekpa". News. 2023-02-17. Retrieved 2024-01-02.
  18. ^ "Ihe Finland kwuru maka ebubo na Simon Ekpa na-akpalite tigbuo-zogbuo n'Ọwụwa Anyanwụ". BBC News Ìgbò (in Igbo). 2023-01-21. Retrieved 2023-02-09.
  19. ^ "IPOB sacks Kanu's successor in Radio Biafra". The Sun. 22 July 2021.
  20. ^ Njoku, Lawrence (22 July 2021). "IPOB sacks Simon Ekpa as Radio Biafra broadcaster". The Guardian. Enugu. Retrieved 22 January 2023.
  21. ^ Reporters, Sahara (26 May 2022). "EXCLUSIVE: IPOB Accuses Nnamdi Kanu's Self-proclaimed Disciple, Simon Ekpa Of Working With Nigerian Politicians, Security Agencies To Kill Igbo People". Sahara Reporters. New York. Retrieved 22 January 2023.
  22. ^ Samuel, Okonkwo (2 April 2022). "IPOB Reveals Name/Face Behind Unknown Gunmen In South East - Daily News Reporters". Daily News Reporters - Voice of the Southeast. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  23. ^ a b Ani, Emmanuel (5 July 2023). "Tension in Enugu as unknown gunmen enforce sit-at-home". Daily Post. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  24. ^ Original quote "Hänen tulisi lopettaa vihan lietsominen ja provosointi. Ekpa ei edusta Suomen igboja", https://yle.fi/a/74-20018561
  25. ^ "Hämeen kokoomus selvittää separatistijohtaja Simon Ekpan toimintaa Nigeriassa – Suomessa asuvat maanmiehet irtisanoutuvat väkivallasta". Yle Uutiset (in Finnish). 2023-02-17. Retrieved 2023-02-20.
  26. ^ "Yle Nigeriassa: Miljoonat pysyvät kotona joka maanantai, kun Simon Ekpa Lahdesta käskee – pelko on seudulla kouriintuntuvaa". Yle Uutiset (in Finnish). 2023-02-18. Retrieved 2023-02-20.
  27. ^ "Poliisi epäilee lahtelaista Simon Ekpaa rahankeräysrikoksesta – KRP selvittää myös nigerialaiskapinallisen toimia sosiaalisessa mediassa". 24 February 2023.
  28. ^ Uchechukwu, Oghenekevwe UCHECHUKWU (11 April 2023). "Ekpa declares self Biafra Prime Minister in Exile, names advisory council". ICIR. Retrieved 11 March 2024.
  29. ^ "Nnamdi Kanu's 'Disciple', Ekpa Writes UN, Announces Himself As Prime Minister Of Biafra Government In Exile, Lists Other Ministers, Office Holders | Sahara Reporters". saharareporters.com. 13 April 2023. Retrieved 10 June 2023.
  30. ^ Ariemu, Ogaga (24 May 2023). "Nnamdi Kanu in severe pain, needs urgent ear surgery – Ekpa raises alarm". Daily Post (Nigeria). Retrieved 10 June 2023.
  31. ^ Ariemu, Ogaga (5 June 2023). "Sit-at-home: Ekpa knocks Mbah, claims governor disgraced". Daily Post (Nigeria). Retrieved 10 June 2023.
  32. ^ Nnachi, Edward (2 October 2023). "Gunmen attack Ebonyi community, burn vehicles, others". The Punch. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  33. ^ Ariemu, Ogaga (23 May 2023). "Nnamdi Kanu happy with Biafra Republic Government in Exile – Ekpa insists". Daily Post (Nigeria). Retrieved 10 June 2023.
  34. ^ Opejobi, Seun (16 April 2023). "Simon Ekpa: Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB have no link with Biafra govt in exile - IPOB". Daily Post. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  35. ^ Obeta, Okechukwu (2022-12-07). "Ignore 5-day Sit-at-home Order, IPOB Tells South East Residents". Retrieved 2023-06-16.
  36. ^ Osaji, Sharon (2022-12-15). "Ekpa ends sit-at-home, says no elections in South-East". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 2023-06-16.
  37. ^ Sunday, Ochogwu (2022-12-06). "No 5-day sit-at-home in South-East – IPOB counters Simon Ekpa". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 2023-06-15.
  38. ^ Ariemu, Ogaga (2023-06-14). "Ekpa announces weeklong sit-at-home to demand release of Nnamdi Kanu". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 2023-06-15.
  39. ^ "IPOB: Ekpa Alleges S'East Governors Sponsored Terrorists To Attack Him In Finland – The Whistler Newspaper". thewhistler.ng. Retrieved 2023-07-31.
  40. ^ "Simon Ekpa Sit-At-Home: Gunmen Attack, Set Police Van Ablaze In Enugu | African Examiner". African Examiner. 10 December 2022. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  41. ^ Ariemu, Ogaga (2023-10-19). "Simon Ekpa hosts three-day extraordinary conference on Biafra Referendum". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 2024-01-07.
  42. ^ Okafor, Emeka (2023-10-22). "The Biafra-Helsinki Declaration Convention". Dotland Media. Retrieved 2024-01-07.
  43. ^ "Biafra Liberation Army, Resistance Fighters will protect Igbos in southeast - Simon Ekpa". Vanguard News.
  44. ^ Agberebi, James (28 November 2023). "Gunmen kill DPO, inspector in Imo". The Guardian. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  45. ^ Jimoh, Taiwo (28 November 2023). "UPDATE: Imo CP Hunt For Killers Of DPO, Orderly Murder". New Telegraph. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  46. ^ Reporter, NigPilot News (2024-03-24). "Declaring Simon Ekpa wanted sessionist won't stop Biafra Independence declaration in 2024 - BRGIE". Nigerian Pilot News. Retrieved 2024-04-14.
  47. ^ Odeniyi, Solomon (22 March 2024). "DHQ declares Simon Ekpa, 96 others wanted". The Punch. Retrieved 20 April 2024.
  48. ^ Omonobi, Kingsley (24 March 2024). "IPoB: Simon Ekpa, Chika Edoziem, Egede, 94 others wanted". Vanguard. Retrieved 20 April 2024.
  49. ^ "DHQ declares Simon Ekpa, 96 others wanted for terrorism, kidnapping". Peoples Gazette. 23 March 2024. Retrieved 20 April 2024.
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