Obi, however, lamented the death of four Nigerians who reportedly died in custody while negotiations were ongoing.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has applauded the President Bola Tinubu-led administration for successfully concluding a prisoner exchange agreement with Ethiopia.
He hailed the swap deal on Tuesday in a post shared on his official X page, describing it as a refreshing humanitarian intervention.
Obi went on to praise the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and Ethiopian authorities for bringing the protracted negotiations to a successful conclusion.
He added that the exchange underscores the importance of protecting the dignity and rights of Nigerian citizens, regardless of their location or circumstances.
He, however, expressed sadness over reports that at least four Nigerians died in Ethiopian custody while the negotiations were ongoing, extending his condolences to their 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,” he said.
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Obi noted that “the overwhelming majority of these citizens are young Nigerians”, adding that a “significant number were arrested while transiting through Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport in search of greener pastures.”
While urging Nigerians to obey the laws of the countries they visit, the former Anambra State governor said the situation highlights the need to address the economic challenges driving many young Nigerians to seek opportunities outside the country.
Suggesting a way forward, he advised: “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.”
Obi further called for the proper management of correctional facilities as the transferred prisoners return to Nigeria to serve out their sentences, emphasising rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
He urged the government to use the development as a wake-up call to build a nation that protects, values, and empowers its citizens.
