From Francis Sadhere, Ugolo
Peace advocate and environmentalist, Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, PhD, on Monday spearheaded calls for unity and peaceful coexistence in Delta State as Nigerians joined the global community to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Peace.
The event, held at the Africa for Peace Games Village, Ugolo, near Osubi, was themed “Act Now for a Peaceful World.” It drew community leaders, civil society organizations, youths, security agencies, and the media.
In his welcome address, Mulade stressed that peace is not a luxury but a necessity for survival and sustainable development. He cautioned Deltans, particularly youths and community leaders, against being used as tools for conflict and urged them to become ambassadors of peace.
He specifically appealed to the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw ethnic nationalities in Warri Federal Constituency to embrace dialogue, resist divisive elements, and work towards genuine reconciliation.
“Peace is not just an aspiration, it is a necessity,” Mulade declared. “I strongly appeal to my people to avoid conflicts and resist divide-and-rule infiltrators so that Warri can enjoy lasting peace and development.”
According to him, only through unity and cooperation among Urhobo, Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, and Anioma groups can Delta State realize its true potential as a hub of economic and social progress.
“Together, we can make a difference in Warri and Delta State. Let us act now to promote peace, justice, and equality, and to build a society where everyone can live with dignity and respect,” he added.
Delivering a goodwill message, Ambassador Pastor Edewor Egedegbe, Executive Director of the Value Rebirth & Empowerment Initiative and South-South Coordinator of the Male Feminist Network, emphasized that gender-based violence remains a major barrier to peace.
He described it as “the silent war undermining peace in our time,” and urged men to reject harmful traditions, stereotypes, and abuses against women and girls.
“Feminism is not about conflict between men and women but about fairness, justice, and dismantling oppressive systems. When women and girls are free from violence, families thrive, communities grow stronger, and nations advance in peace and development,” Egedegbe said.
Also speaking, Prof. Phillip Okolo, PhD, of Niger Delta University, Bayelsa, affirmed that peace is non-negotiable for any society seeking growth.
Superintendent Eti Ese, Divisional Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Okpe Division, pledged the agency’s collaboration with CEPEJ to safeguard federal assets while urging citizens to seek redress through lawful channels in times of dispute.
On her part, Chief Route Commander Florence Itimi, Acting Unit Commander, RS5.28 Orerokpe Unit Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), advised residents to embrace peace or explore alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, stressing that “where there is no peace, development cannot flourish.”
The President General of Okpe Kingdom, Pastor Freedom Akitia, alongside other community leaders, also lent his voice in support of the peace initiative.
The celebration ended with stakeholders renewing their commitment to strengthen peacebuilding, eliminate violence in all forms, and create an environment where every individual, regardless of gender or ethnicity, can live in safety, dignity, and respect.
