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IPCR Calls For Violent Free Election in Imo, Bayelsa, Kogi
IPCR Calls For Violent Free Election in Imo, Bayelsa, Kogi
By: Michael Mike
Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has called for violent free elections in Imo, Bayelsa and Kogi states.
holding on Saturday, November 11, 2023.
The Director General of the Institute, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, in a statement asked that all stakeholders should ensure that the governorship election on Saturday in the three states are without violence and bloodletting.
He noted that the off cycle elections present peculiar challenges because of violence in some of the states, adding that during the campaigns, pockets of violence were noticed and that the attitude by some political stakeholders to unleash violence should be stopped, because it has the capacity to distort the credibility of an election.
He stated that the key actors in this election have the responsibility of ensuring that the election is violent free. They also have the responsibility of ensuring that people come out to vote to avoid voters aparthy.
He also advised that the key actors in the elections should ensure that the credibility of the elections is not questioned. They should play by the rules.
He said the Army, Police and other security agencies have promised to ensure that the elections are violent free, but the stakeholders in the election should on their part ensure that their supporters maintain peace during and after election.
He recalled that at least 18 political parties taking part in Saturday’s governorship poll in Imo state have signed a peace accord to eschew violence before, during and after the exercise.
Ochogwu said signing of peace accords alone cannot guarantee peace, insisting that the actors involved in the elections should ensure that the peace accord signed is followed with action.
He said: “The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution calls for violent free, rule based elections, so that the credibility of the elections is not questioned.
“The key actors should play by the rules. Election is not a do or die affair. You have to be alive to be in politics. Politics is not done in isolation. The key actors should have it at the back of their mind that nothing can be achieved with violence.”
End
IPCR Calls For Violent Free Election in Imo, Bayelsa, Kogi
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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