President Bola Tinubu has publicly praised the Finnish government for the arrest and detention of Simon Ekpa, a key Biafra separatist leader. During a meeting at the State House where he received Letters of Credence from the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, Tinubu described Ekpa’s arrest as “well deserved” and emphasized his administration’s stance against actions that might foster division within Nigeria.
Tinubu highlighted the timely nature of Finland’s intervention, stating it was crucial for maintaining the nation’s integrity and ensuring peaceful coexistence among its citizens. He reiterated his government’s policy of zero tolerance for terrorism and divisiveness, underscoring his background in activism but commitment to national unity and cooperation for development.
The President’s comments were part of a broader diplomatic engagement where he also received credentials from the Ambassadors of the European Union, Mr. Gautier Mignot, and the People’s Republic of Algeria, Hocine Mezoued. During this event, Tinubu stressed the importance of the rule of law in safeguarding democratic values and the ongoing reforms aimed at stimulating economic growth and prosperity in Nigeria.
He acknowledged the Finnish ambassador’s focus areas like ICT, agriculture, and education, which align with Nigeria’s developmental priorities. Tinubu also expressed gratitude for humanitarian support in Nigeria’s North-East, signaling an interest in further cooperation.
In response, Ambassador Selin commended Tinubu for his bold economic reforms and noted that Ekpa’s activities had been damaging to bilateral relations between Nigeria and Finland. She mentioned that the cooperation between the two nations was now improving, thanks in part to the evidence provided by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
This diplomatic exchange underscores not only the international dimensions of internal security issues in Nigeria but also the broader implications of foreign policy on national integrity and development. The arrest of Simon Ekpa by Finnish authorities, therefore, not only addresses a direct security concern for Nigeria but also signifies a step towards enhanced diplomatic relations with Finland, focusing on mutual respect for sovereignty and legal frameworks.
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