By Precious Mark
Peter Obi has welcomed the conclusion of a prisoner exchange agreement between Nigeria and Ethiopia, describing the development as a humanitarian intervention that underscores the need to protect the dignity of Nigerians abroad.
In a statement on Tuesday, Obi commended the efforts of Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lateef Fagbemi, Attorney-General of the Federation, and Ethiopian authorities for successfully concluding negotiations that led to the transfer of Nigerian prisoners from Ethiopia.
“The news of the conclusion of the prisoners exchange between Nigeria and Ethiopia is refreshing,” Obi said.
He stressed that every life is precious and that protecting the constitutional right to human dignity for Nigerians, regardless of their location or circumstances, should remain a key component of the country’s foreign policy.
However, Obi expressed concern over reports that at least four Nigerian citizens died in custody while negotiations for the exchange were ongoing.
“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. My heart goes out to their families, who had to endure the ultimate pain of losing loved ones in a foreign land,” he said.
Obi 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.
While urging Nigerians abroad to remain law-abiding and respect the laws of their host countries, Obi said the development raises important questions about the factors pushing many young Nigerians to seek opportunities outside the country.
“Until we build a New Nigeria that offers genuine economic opportunities, a functional educational framework, and an environment where hard work is rewarded, we will continue to grapple with the tragic consequences of mass emigration and its associated vulnerabilities,” he stated.
Obi also called for effective management of correctional facilities as the transferred prisoners return to Nigeria, stressing the need for rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.
“As these citizens are brought home to serve out their terms, our correctional facilities must be properly managed with a focus on genuine rehabilitation and societal reintegration,” he said.
He encouraged leaders to use the development as a wake-up call to build a nation that protects, values and empowers its citizens, adding that “with the right policies and leadership, a New Nigeria is possible.”