Abudu – The National Orientation Agency (NOA), have called on traditional institutions to synergize with States and federal government towards the attainment of overall peace and unity in the country.
Edo State Director, NOA, Mrs. Grace Eseka made the call recently in her address, during the Agency’s sensitization workshop held at Abudu, Administrative Headquarters of Orhionmwon Local Government, Edo State.
Mrs. Eseka commended the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, for checkmating unwholesome activities of defunct Community Development Associations (CDAs) and the setting up an Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee to fast track peace and justice in the State.
The Edo NOA boss who enjoined citizens to demonstrate a sense of commitment towards promoting peace and good neighbourliness in their various communities, stated that peaceful coexistence is the only panacea for development.
She however noted that the Federal government through NOA is championing the course of peaceful co-existence, to ensure citizens in every locality are safe, secured, unmolested and lead dignified lives while carrying out their lawful businesses.
Also speaking at the workshop, the Guest Lecturer, Mr. Alex Omorodion, in his keynote address identified the barrier to peace and security, which according to him includes unemployment, lack of infrastructure, invaders and hate speeches.
Mr. Omorodion, a Public Affairs Analyst and Financial Advisor, pointed out that society is bedeviled by these elements which is now the aftermath of insecurity and communal crisis, adding, peace building is a long-term prospect because violent conflicts occur over generations.
On his part, the Head of Local Government Administration,(HOLGA), Mr. Benjamin Ogbekhilu, noted that Orhionmwon Local Government has a track record of peaceful co-existence.
The HOLGA who declared the fifth forum in the state open and represented by Mr. Victor Igbinigie, added, despite the diversity and cultural inclination of the people in the area, they have lived harmoniously.
Also, the Abudu Divisional Police Officer,(DPO) SP Onwuche Stephen, commended NOA for driving the course of building a people of peace, with a call on participants to be ambassadors of peace in their various communities.
SP Onwuche added that, there is no alternative to peace, hence it is a deliberate effort and a meaningful contribution of everyone to ensure its possible.
There were Goodwill messages from the Nigerian Police, Department for State Security (DSS), The Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC), The Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corp (NSCDC), The Peace Corps, Traditional rulers, Religious Leaders amongst others.
