ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has welcomed the completion of a prisoner exchange arrangement between Nigeria and Ethiopia, calling it a humanitarian step that safeguards the dignity of citizens abroad.
In a statement Monday, Obi praised the efforts of Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, and Ethiopian authorities for concluding negotiations that led to the transfer of Nigerian prisoners. He said the move reflects Nigeria’s responsibility to protect its citizens, regardless of location or circumstance.
Obi, however, expressed sorrow over reports that at least four Nigerians died in custody while the diplomatic process was underway. He said the deaths highlight the human cost of prolonged negotiations and urged reflection on the broader issues driving migration, noting that many of those affected were young people seeking opportunities abroad under difficult conditions.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that Nigeria must create an environment that offers economic opportunities, quality education and rewards hard work to reduce mass migration and its risks. He also called for proper management of correctional facilities as the transferred prisoners return home, emphasizing rehabilitation and reintegration programs.
Obi said the exchange should serve not only as a humanitarian intervention but also as a reminder of the need to build a country that values and empowers its citizens. He urged Nigerians to obey the laws of host countries while pressing leaders to address the socio‑economic challenges that push many to leave.
The development comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with migration pressures and the welfare of its citizens abroad, issues that carry significant humanitarian and diplomatic weight in its relations with other nations.
