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IPCR Calls on Stakeholders to Promote Peace
IPCR Calls on Stakeholders to Promote Peace
By: Michael Mike
The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged government, private sector, security agencies, the media, as well as religious and traditional leaders to work together to strengthen peace in Nigeria.
The call was made at a ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the Institute, celebrated alongside the 2025 International Day of Peace.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, said the theme of this year’s International Day of Peace, “Act Now for a Peaceful World”, underscores the urgency for collective action.
“The imperative to act now reflects the reality that peace cannot be deferred, delegated, or delayed. It requires immediate, sustained, and coordinated action from individuals, institutions, and nations,” Ochogwu stressed.
Reflecting on the institute’s achievements over the last 25 years, the DG highlighted IPCR’s role in training thousands of peace practitioners, mediators, and community leaders, as well as its interventions in communal disputes, electoral violence prevention, and religious reconciliation efforts.
“Our early warning systems and rapid response mechanisms have helped prevent the escalation of numerous potential conflicts, saving countless lives and preserving community harmony,” he noted.
Ochogwu also emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and civil society in tackling insecurity, banditry, and communal clashes across Nigeria.
“Government must prioritize conflict prevention, invest in peacebuilding infrastructure, and ensure that development policies are conflict-sensitive and inclusive,” he said.
The DG further called on the media to adopt conflict-sensitive reporting and use their platforms to amplify voices of peace and reconciliation, while urging religious and traditional leaders to leverage their influence to promote tolerance and understanding.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, IPCR outlined a series of activities, including interfaith prayer sessions, a “Sports for Peace and Mental Health Clinic,” and a peace walk followed by a commemorative lecture.
He emphasized that sustainable peace is deeply connected to individual wellbeing. To promote this, the organization is launching a “Sport for Peace and Mental Health” clinic a creative initiative combining physical activity with mental health support.
This approach not only helps address trauma and the physiological impacts of conflict but also fosters community healing through active engagement.
“Recognizing that peace begins with individual wellbeing, we are hosting a Sport for Peace and Mental Health Clinic that integrates physical activity with mental health support. This innovative approach acknowledges that sustainable peace requires addressing the physiological dimensions of conflict and trauma while promoting healthy community engagement through sport.”
Ochogwu concluded with a reminder of the institute’s long-term mission.
“Peace is both a destination and a journey. The past 25 years have shown that sustainable peace is possible when we act with determination and unity. The time for peace is always now.”
IPCR Calls on Stakeholders to Promote Peace
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
By: Michael Mike
A human rights organisation, Speak Out for Justice Advocacy Ltd./Gte. (SOJA), has condemned the reported abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident and the alleged killing of a teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, as “a case too many.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group expressed deep concern over reports that armed attackers abducted teachers and students from schools within the council area around May 15, 2026, while Mr. Oyedokun, a Mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, was reportedly killed during the incident.
The organisation said several victims were still believed to be in captivity awaiting rescue.
SOJA, led by its Founder and Executive Director, Hameed Ajibola Jimoh, commiserated with the affected families and communities, warning that repeated attacks on schools and civilians across parts of the country were becoming alarming.
According to the advocacy group, the incident, if confirmed, raises serious constitutional and human rights concerns under both Nigerian law and international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, SOJA stressed that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” while Sections 33, 34 and 35 guarantee the rights to life, dignity and personal liberty.
The group also referenced Nigeria’s obligations under several international and regional legal frameworks, including the United Nations-backed International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC).
SOJA argued that the obligations imposed by these instruments go beyond symbolic commitments, requiring authorities to take practical and preventive steps to protect lives, especially those of vulnerable groups such as school children and teachers.
“The implication of these obligations in the present circumstances is that government responsibility extends beyond merely reacting after tragic events occur,” the statement said.
The organisation acknowledged reports that security agencies had intensified rescue operations and investigations, but maintained that recurring attacks on schools demanded more decisive and proactive measures.
“This is a case too many,” the statement added.
SOJA therefore called for the immediate intensification of lawful rescue efforts for those still in captivity, a thorough investigation into the incident, prosecution of perpetrators, strengthened security around schools and vulnerable communities, and adequate support for affected victims and families.
The group further urged the government to undertake a comprehensive review of strategies aimed at preventing future attacks on educational institutions.
“Teachers should not become targets. Schools should not become zones of fear. Children should not bear the burden of insecurity,” the organisation stated.
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace have recovered a suspected stolen motorcycle following a pursuit of suspected motorcycle snatchers in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. on May 21 along the Bachi-Banghai road after troops received reports on the activities of suspected motorcycle snatchers in the area.
The sources said the troops immediately mobilised and pursued the suspects, who abandoned the motorcycle and fled upon sighting the security personnel.
According to the sources, the recovered motorcycle has been secured, while efforts were ongoing to identify the rightful owner and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The military said the operation formed part of sustained efforts to combat criminal activities and enhance security across Plateau.
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
Troops launch rescue operation after abduction in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace have launched a rescue operation following the abduction of a resident in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on May 21 when gunmen reportedly abducted Mr Eze Emeka from his residence at Agingi village.
The sources said troops swiftly responded to the distress report and commenced rescue operations in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to the sources, efforts were ongoing to track down the kidnappers and secure the safe release of the victim.
The military assured residents that security forces were intensifying operations to curb criminal activities in the area.
Troops launch rescue operation after abduction in Plateau
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