The Finnish government through its embassy in Abuja Nigeria condemns violence and incitement to violence in all its forms. In a press release, regarding the upcoming general elections in Nigeria, the Embassy of Finland in Nigeria reiterates Finland’s clear and unequivocal condemnation of all forms of violence and incitement to violence. The embassy pointed out that political aims should be pursued solely through political means.
Recall that on Tuesday, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Finnish Ambassador, over misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and incitive comments by Simon Ekpa, which many fear could derail the peaceful conduct of 2023 general elections.
At the meeting with the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Leena Pylvanainen, Foreign Affairs Minister, Geoffrey Onyeama expressed displeasure over the orders given by Simon Ekpa to his teeming followers who consequently embarked on killings, maiming, burning and other destructive activities.
A fake letter was circulated yesterday on Facebook Twitter & Whatsapp which Prime Minister Sanna Marin threatens Simon Ekpa from Lahti with arrest over his incessant incitement to violence and the no-election in Southeast mantra. Many believed that the letter may have originated from the camp of Simon Ekpa for his own advantage.
The Embassy opined that they have been approached with questions about the position of Finland regarding events in Southeast Nigeria. And the response reads; “Our position is very clear: We cannot in any way condone calls for stopping the conduct of elections, or any actions aimed at preventing people from exercising their democratic rights. Every individual has the right not to vote, but actions aimed at preventing others from doing so are clearly not acceptable”
