President Bola Tinubu has praised the Finnish government for arresting and detaining Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Tinubu made the remarks on Friday while receiving Sanna Selin, Finnish ambassador to Nigeria, who presented her letter of credence at the State House.
The president emphasised that his administration would not tolerate actions or rhetoric that could create divisions among Nigerians.
“I must commend you for your stance on safeguarding human rights in our country with the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible,” Tinubu told Selin.
“We have endured turbulent times and will not promote terrorism. Though I am a child of activism, I reject divisiveness. We need unity and cooperation for progress. Stability and cohesion are our guiding principles for moving Nigeria forward.”
Tinubu acknowledged the Finnish authorities’ intervention in preserving Nigeria’s integrity and countering a threat to peaceful coexistence.
“The national security adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has kept me informed. I understand the significance of the rule of law,” the president said.
“The rule of law upholds our democratic values, morals, and principles. It must be respected.”
Selin noted that Simon Ekpa’s actions had strained bilateral relations and acknowledged improved cooperation between Finland and Nigeria following his arrest.
“The national security adviser has provided all necessary evidence,” the ambassador said.
Selin also commended Tinubu’s economic reforms, highlighting Finland’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in energy security.
During the event, Tinubu received letters of credence from Gautier Mignot, the European Union (EU) ambassador, and Hocine Mezoued, the Algerian ambassador.
The president described the EU as one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners and called for deeper ties. He also urged Algeria to collaborate on implementing the trans-Saharan African Gas Pipeline project.
