Peter Obi, has commended the successful conclusion of the prisoner exchange agreement between Nigeria and Ethiopia, describing it as a significant humanitarian achievement while urging urgent attention to the socio-economic conditions pushing young Nigerians abroad.
In a statement titled “Reflecting on the Prison Exchange with Ethiopia,” Obi described the development as “refreshing,” stressing that every Nigerian, regardless of location or circumstance, deserves the protection of their constitutional right to human dignity.
He praised the efforts of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and their Ethiopian counterparts for successfully concluding negotiations that had reportedly lasted several years.
However, Obi expressed deep sadness over reports that at least four Nigerians died while in custody during the prolonged diplomatic process, describing the loss as heartbreaking and extending condolences to the affected families.
He noted that many of those involved were young Nigerians allegedly arrested while transiting through Bole International Airport in search of better opportunities abroad, adding that while citizens must respect the laws of host countries, Nigeria must confront the root causes driving mass migration.
Obi further called for stronger economic reforms, improved education, and better opportunities at home to curb irregular migration, stressing the need for proper rehabilitation and reintegration of the returning inmates. He concluded that the development should serve as a wake-up call for nation-building, insisting that “a New Nigeria is possible” with the right leadership and policies.
Elijah Adeyemi
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