Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi has commended the Federal Government for successfully finalising a prisoner exchange agreement with Ethiopia, hailing it as a positive humanitarian move.
In a statement on his X account on Tuesday, Obi praised the efforts of Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and Ethiopian authorities for concluding the long-running negotiations.
He described the swap as an important step in safeguarding the dignity and rights of Nigerian citizens abroad, irrespective of their situation.
However, Obi expressed deep sadness over reports that at least four Nigerians died in Ethiopian custody during the prolonged talks. He extended condolences to the bereaved 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,” Obi said.
The former governor noted that many of the Nigerians involved were young people arrested while transiting through Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport as they sought better economic opportunities overseas.
While advising Nigerians to respect the laws of countries they visit, Obi stressed that the issue underscores the urgent need to tackle the economic hardships pushing many youths to emigrate.He called on Nigeria to create more jobs, strengthen its education system, and foster an environment where hard work and enterprise are properly rewarded to reduce risky irregular migration.
Obi further urged the government to ensure proper management of correctional facilities for the returning prisoners, with emphasis on rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.He described the development as a wake-up call for Nigeria to build a nation that truly protects, values, and empowers its citizens.
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