A prominent activist lawyer, Maduabuchi Idam, has raised concerns over Nigeria’s slow and inconsistent justice system following the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa by a Finnish court.
Ekpa, who refers to himself as the “Prime Minister of Biafra,” was handed a six-year prison sentence on Monday by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland. He was found guilty of terrorism-related offences, including inciting violence and promoting unrest in southeastern Nigeria through his online activities.
According to reports, Finnish authorities had arrested Ekpa on November 21, 2024, after thorough investigations by the country’s National Bureau of Investigation linked him to terrorism activities in Nigeria’s Southeast.
Lawyer Reacts: “Finland Exposed Nigeria’s Weak System”
In a statement reacting to the judgment, Barr. Maduabuchi Idam noted that what stood out for him was not the conviction itself, but the speed of the Finnish trial.
“Securing a verdict in Simon Ekpa’s case in less than a year is more important to me than the conviction itself,” he said.
“The expeditious conclusion of this case has exposed Nigeria’s criminal justice system to scorn, mockery, and dishonor before the international community.”
The lawyer criticized the Nigerian system for delays, adjournments, and inefficiency, suggesting that authorities should use Finland’s example as a wake-up call to reform legal processes.
Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release
Idam further urged the Federal Government not to be swayed by Ekpa’s conviction but to consider the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
He stressed that releasing Kanu could serve as the most peaceful solution to the ongoing unrest in the Southeast.
“Rather than gloat over Ekpa’s conviction, the government should reflect on the shortcomings of its justice system and see Kanu’s release as a peaceable option for the region.”
Final Thoughts
The case has sparked fresh debates on Nigeria’s criminal justice structure, with critics pointing out that while other nations swiftly prosecute high-profile cases, Nigeria often struggles with prolonged trials, political interference, and lack of judicial efficiency.
For many observers, Finland’s handling of Simon Ekpa’s trial is a mirror showing Nigeria the urgent need for reforms in its justice system.
