By: Bayero Ade
The Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sanna Selin, has accused Simon Ekpa, a leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), of undermining the diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Finland.
According to Afripost, Selin made the statement on Friday while presenting her Letter of Credence to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu at the State House. According to a statement from presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the ambassador noted that Ekpa’s actions have posed a significant challenge to bilateral relations, although she acknowledged positive developments in other areas of cooperation.
“Simon Ekpa has been an obstacle to our relationship. However, overall, our cooperation continues to progress well, and the National Security Adviser has provided ample evidence to support our position,” Selin said.
The ambassador also commended President Tinubu’s ongoing reforms, recognizing the challenges they pose but underscoring their importance for Nigeria’s future. She also highlighted Finland’s contributions to peace mediation and expressed optimism about potential collaboration with Nigeria in the energy sector.
In response, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to Finland for prosecuting Ekpa, reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to unity and rejecting terrorism and divisive rhetoric.
“We appreciate Finland’s firm stance on human rights, including the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is a united country. We have faced challenges in the past, and we will continue to oppose terrorism and division,” President Tinubu stated.
The president emphasized that the nation’s stability and unity are crucial for its development, stating, “Our focus remains on national cohesion and collaboration to drive the country forward.”
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