President Bola Tinubu has commended the Finnish government for its decisive intervention in the arrest and detention of Simon Ekpa, describing it as a crucial step towards preserving Nigeria’s unity and peaceful coexistence.
Tinubu stated this on Friday in Abuja while receiving Letters of Credence from the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, at the State House.
The President expressed gratitude to Finland for its cooperation in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic values and addressing actions that could cause division among citizens.
This was contained in a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday.
“I must thank you for your record on safeguarding human rights in our country with the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible. We have been through turbulent times, and we don’t want to promote terrorism,” Tinubu stated.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to fostering unity and stability, Tinubu stressed that Nigeria requires cohesion to move forward.
“I am a child born into activism, but not divisiveness. We need cohesion and cooperation to bring about development. Our watchword is stability and cohesion to move the country forward,” he added.
The President also highlighted the importance of adhering to the rule of law in upholding democratic principles.
“The rule of law safeguards our democratic credentials, morals, and values. We must respect the rule of law,” he said.
The Finnish Ambassador, Ms. Selin, thanked the Nigerian government for its collaboration and praised President Tinubu’s ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the nation’s economy.
She noted that the measures, though challenging, are necessary for Nigeria’s growth.
“Simon Ekpa has been hindering bilateral relations. The cooperation
between our two countries is going very well now, and the National Security Adviser has been providing all the evidence,” Ms. Selin remarked.
She further commended Tinubu’s boldness in implementing reforms, stating, “Even though it is painful, it is the only way Nigeria can progress. It is essential for the country.”
Tinubu also used the occasion to discuss Nigeria’s bilateral relationship with Finland, expressing optimism about opportunities in information and communications technology, agriculture, and education.
He praised Finland’s support for humanitarian efforts in the North East and called for further cooperation.