Prisoner Exchange: Obi commends Nigeria, Ethiopia, laments deaths of four Nigerians in custody

Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate in the 2023 election, welcomed the completion of the prisoner exchange between Nigeria and Ethiopia, calling it a humanitarian measure that preserves the dignity of Nigerians abroad.

In a statement released on Monday, Obi praised the work of Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, Attorney‑General and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and Ethiopian officials for finalizing the negotiations that resulted in the transfer of the prisoners.

He added that every Nigerian citizen is entitled to protection and respect for their constitutional right to human dignity, regardless of where they are or their circumstances.

The former governor of Anambra State, however, expressed sorrow over reports that at least four Nigerians died while in custody during the diplomatic and administrative process.

He said the deaths underscore the human cost of extended negotiations and the suffering of families who lost loved ones abroad.

Obi called on Nigerians to consider the broader issues behind the situation, noting that many of those affected were young people who had left the country seeking better opportunities.

While emphasizing the importance of Nigerians complying with the laws of host countries, he questioned the socio‑economic conditions that drive many young people to seek opportunities abroad under difficult circumstances.

He argued that Nigeria must create an environment that provides economic opportunities, quality education, and rewards hard work to address the root causes of mass migration and its risks.

Obi also urged proper management of correctional facilities as the transferred prisoners return to Nigeria to serve their sentences, stressing the need for rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.

He said the prisoner exchange should be seen not only as a humanitarian intervention but also as a reminder of the need to build a country that protects, values, and empowers its citizens.

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