Human rights lawyer, Maduabuchi Idam, has said the swift conviction of Simon Ekpa, the self-styled Prime Minister of Biafra, by a Finnish court has laid bare the inefficiencies and weaknesses of Nigeria’s criminal justice system before the international community.
In a statement on Tuesday, Idam noted that securing a verdict in less than a year was more significant than the conviction itself, stressing that Nigeria should learn from Finland’s speed in handling criminal trials.
“The expeditious conclusion of Ekpa’s case by the Finnish court has exposed Nigeria’s criminal justice system to scorn, mockery and dishonor before the international community,” Idam said.
He urged the Federal Government not to gloat over the judgment but instead reflect on its own judicial processes for possible reforms.
Idam further advised that rather than be swayed by the Finnish court’s ruling, the government should consider the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as a more peaceful option for resolving tensions in the Southeast.
“Importantly, the Federal Government must not be influenced by the conviction but should consider the release of Mr. Kanu as the best peaceable option for the southeast, especially at the moment,” he added.
On Monday, the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland sentenced Ekpa to six years imprisonment for terrorism-related offences.
Ekpa, who was arrested by Finnish authorities on November 21, 2024, had been investigated by the National Bureau of Investigation over allegations of inciting terrorism and promoting violence through social media — activities linked to unrest and bloodshed in southeastern Nigeria.
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