Peter Obi praises Tinubu govt over Nigeria-Ethiopia prisoner swap, laments deaths of four Nigerians
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi, has commended the Federal Government for successfully concluding a prisoner exchange agreement between Nigeria and Ethiopia, describing the development as a refreshing humanitarian intervention.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Tuesday, Obi praised the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and Ethiopian authorities for bringing the protracted negotiations to a successful conclusion.
According to him, the exchange underscores the importance of protecting the dignity and rights of Nigerian citizens, regardless of their location or circumstances.
Obi, however, expressed sadness over reports that at least four Nigerians died in Ethiopian custody while the negotiations were ongoing, extending his condolences to their families.
“It is heartbreaking to learn that at least four Nigerian citizens lost their lives in custody while this diplomatic and administrative process dragged on over the past few years,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor noted that many of the affected Nigerians were young people arrested while transiting through Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport in search of better opportunities abroad.
While urging Nigerians to obey the laws of countries they visit, Obi said the situation highlights the need to address the economic challenges driving many young Nigerians to seek opportunities outside the country.
He stressed that Nigeria must create more economic opportunities, improve its educational system and build an environment where hard work is rewarded in order to curb mass emigration and its associated risks.
Obi also called for proper management of correctional facilities as the transferred prisoners return to Nigeria to serve out their sentences, emphasizing rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
He urged the government to use the development as a wake-up call to build a nation that protects, values and empowers its citizens.
