President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed gratitude to the Finnish government for its decisive action in addressing the case of Simon Ekpa, the self-acclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
While receiving Finland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Sanna Selin, at the Presidential Villa on Friday, January 24, Tinubu acknowledged Finland’s intervention in the matter, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to preserving national unity.
The president made it clear that the Nigerian government would not tolerate actions or rhetoric that threaten the country’s cohesion or undermine its sovereignty.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu commended Finland’s “timely intervention” in ensuring accountability.
“I must thank you for your commitment to safeguarding human rights and supporting the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible. We have endured turbulent times, and we will not promote terrorism or divisiveness,” Tinubu said.
He further added, “I grew up in an environment that valued activism, but not one that encouraged division. Our focus is on cohesion and cooperation to foster development. Stability remains our watchword as we move Nigeria forward.”
The president also reaffirmed his administration’s respect for the rule of law, which he described as essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic values and moral principles.
In her remarks, Ambassador Selin lauded Tinubu’s bold reforms aimed at boosting Nigeria’s economy and ensuring long-term prosperity. She noted that Simon Ekpa’s activities had previously hindered bilateral relations between Nigeria and Finland but expressed satisfaction with the strengthened cooperation between the two nations.
“Simon Ekpa has posed challenges to our bilateral relations, but with the cooperation of your government and the evidence provided by the National Security Adviser, progress is being made,” the Ambassador said.