Peter Obi, a presidential candidate of Nigeria’s Labour Party and the NDC presidential candidate, commends the Nigerian government for finalising a prisoner exchange arrangement with Ethiopia. In statements shared on social media, Obi describes the completion of negotiations as a humanitarian step aimed at protecting the dignity and rights of Nigerians held abroad. He credits efforts linked to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and legal authorities, noting the role of those involved in concluding the long-running talks with Ethiopian authorities.
Obi also expresses grief over reports that at least four Nigerians died while in Ethiopian custody during the period leading up to the agreement. He extends condolences to the bereaved families and raises concern that many of the affected individuals were young Nigerians arrested while transiting through Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport as they sought better opportunities.
While urging Nigerians to comply with the laws of countries they visit, Obi frames the deaths and delayed resolution as highlighting broader issues, including economic hardship and the risks linked to irregular migration. He calls for improved management, rehabilitation and reintegration of returnees after the exchange.
