By Francis Sadhere, Warri
As the world celebrated International Day of Peace yesterday A Non-Governmental Organization, Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) has called on all ethnic and national agitators in the country to adopt non-violent approach to their agitation.
The group made this call in Warri during a peace walk held simultaneously in Benin, Delta and Bayelsa states respectively to celebrate the 2017 International Day of Peace with the theme “Together for Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All.”
National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff Mulade while addressing journalists warned the Independent People of Biafra (IPOB), Arewa Youths, Niger Delta agitators, Oduduwa youths and all other shades of agitators not to plunge the nation into chaos.
He noted that the country’s unity is not negotiable, adding that the various agitations going on across the nation were unacceptable and unnecessary at this point.
“Peace means so much than an absence of war. More ordinary conflict arise from dispute with family, colleagues and neighbors and these disturb our sense of peace. Making peace with one person today, even if it is just with you, is a fitting way to mark the day,” Mulade said.
CEPEJ also appealed to the military to respect the rights of citizens and treat the civilian population with respect and dignity.
“Let the military know that applying force will escalate the conflict and create more disaffection between the military and the civil populace. Learning how to solve disputes without aggression is a great way to enjoy peace day,” Mulade said.
He called on Nigerians to start learning the skill of peace building and begin to talk about peace and peaceful coexistence, saying that people should eschew hate speeches and promote peace.
