The Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sanna Selin, claimed that Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) chieftain, Simon Ekpa, has been blocking bilateral relations between Nigeria and Finland.

Ms Selin made this claim at the State House on Friday when she presented a Letter of Credence to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Bayo Onanuga, the presidential spokesperson, said in a statement.

“Simon Ekpa has been hindering bilateral relations. The cooperation between our two countries is going very well now, and the National Security Adviser has been providing all the evidence,” Ms Selin was quoted as saying.

She added, “I salute you for all the ongoing reforms in the country. They are not easy. Even though it is painful, it is the only way Nigeria can progress. It is essential for the country. Finland has been involved in peace mediation as well. We also have opportunities for Nigeria in energy. We can work and make it a realisable dream.”

Mr Tinubu also commended the Finnish government for arresting and trying Mr Ekpa, saying his administration will not tolerate divisive rhetoric.

“I must thank you for your record on safeguarding human rights in our country with the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible. We have been through turbulent times, and we don’t want to promote terrorism,” Mr. Tinubu said.

“I am a child born into activism, but not divisiveness. We need cohesion and cooperation to bring about development. Our watchword is stability and cohesion to move the country forward.”