Hello, friends. I am Dr. Charles Apoki, and I want to address a matter that is generating significant buzz in the media: the reported plans to extradite Simon Ekpa from Finland to Nigeria. Let me share my thoughts on why this is not the right move for our nation at this time.
We Are Already Overwhelmed with Problems
As the Yoruba people wisely say, when trouble falls, it shatters like a glass jar, scattering everywhere. Nigeria is already grappling with a multitude of issues. We have:
- Economic Challenges: Inflation, unemployment, and a struggling economy are weighing heavily on the average Nigerian.
- Insecurity in the East: Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention, and this has led to sit-at-home orders and escalated unrest in the Southeast.
- Political Agitations: Various groups across the nation are pushing for secession, restructuring, and opposing recent reforms, such as the tax reform bill.
Adding Simon Ekpa to this volatile mix is like pouring fuel on a fire we are already struggling to extinguish.
Learn from Past Mistakes
The decision to bring Nnamdi Kanu back from the UK has significantly exacerbated tensions in the Southeast. His detention has not only worsened insecurity but has also amplified the grievances of his supporters. If Kanu had remained in the UK, we might not be facing the level of instability we see today.
Similarly, Simon Ekpa should remain in Finland. If he has committed any offenses, let the Finnish government handle him according to their laws. We do not need another highly politicized and controversial extradition that could deepen divisions in our country.
Focus on Reducing Tensions
What Nigeria needs right now is to calm the heated polity. We must prioritize stability over unnecessary conflicts. Nations like Turkey, for example, have individuals they accuse of sponsoring unrest who reside abroad. Yet, they have not escalated their domestic issues by demanding extradition.
Bringing Simon Ekpa to Nigeria risks being perceived as persecution, further polarizing an already divided society. Some issues are better left to resolve themselves over time. Let us not create more problems than we already have.
A Call for Strategic Thinking
The complexity of our national challenges demands careful and strategic thinking. Instead of focusing on divisive actions, let us work toward solutions that reduce tension and foster unity. Freeing Nnamdi Kanu and addressing the underlying causes of unrest in the East would be a good starting point.
God bless you,
Dr. Charles Apoki.
