The tide is turning against Simon Ekpa, the Finland-based Biafra separatist, as communities and leaders in Nigeria’s Southeast begin to distance themselves from him following his recent conviction in Helsinki.
For years, Ekpa styled himself as the fiery heir to Nnamdi Kanu’s movement. From his base in Finland, he issued countless “sit-at-home” orders that shut down markets, schools, and businesses across the South-East. What he called a strategy of resistance, however, quickly became a source of fear for ordinary people, enforced with violence and intimidation.
Today, many in the region say they have had enough. Ekpa’s conviction abroad has only accelerated the rejection of his methods. Community leaders, political figures, and even voices within the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) now openly question the damage his approach has caused.
“Simon Ekpa must face the consequences of his actions,” said Uche Awon, a political commentator from the region. “His mannerism and methods aggravated insecurity in the South-East, and people are now realizing the cost of his influence,” according to TheAfricaReport.
While Nnamdi Kanu—still detained by Nigerian authorities—continues to enjoy loyalty from his supporters, Ekpa’s reputation is collapsing. Many now see his activism as more about grandstanding than about advancing the Igbo struggle for justice, development, and autonomy.
For residents, the rejection of Ekpa brings a sense of relief. Parents want to send their children to school without fear of sudden shutdowns. Traders want to open their shops without worrying about violent enforcers. And communities want to focus on growth and stability instead of endless orders from abroad.
Analysts believe Ekpa’s fall from grace could open the door to a new chapter for the South-East—one that prioritises dialogue, development, and nonviolent advocacy over threats and intimidation. For a region eager to move forward, the message is becoming clearer: the South-East is ready to chart its own path, without Simon Ekpa’s shadow looming over it.
