President Bola Tinubu praised the Finnish government for its swift action in arresting and detaining Simon Ekpa, emphasizing that his administration would not tolerate actions or statements that could cause division among Nigerians. He made this statement during a meeting with Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, at the State House in Abuja. Tinubu thanked Finnish authorities for their timely intervention, which he said helped protect Nigeria’s integrity and ensured peaceful coexistence within the country.
Regarding Ekpa’s case, the President reiterated that Nigeria is indivisible, and emphasized his commitment to fostering unity rather than divisiveness. He also stressed the importance of the rule of law in safeguarding the country’s democracy and values, expressing his support for reforms to foster stability and development.
Additionally, President Tinubu received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union, Mr. Gautier Mignot, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Algeria, Hocine Mezoued. During the meeting with the EU Ambassador, Tinubu called for increased trade and support in digitalizing Nigeria’s operations to enhance service delivery. He highlighted the country’s youthful population as an asset for future investment opportunities.
The Finnish Ambassador expressed appreciation for Tinubu’s reform initiatives and noted that Ekpa’s actions had hindered bilateral relations between the two nations, but cooperation was now improving. The Finnish government also offered continued humanitarian support, particularly in the North East of Nigeria.
