ABIA: Stakeholders Unveil Shocking Barriers to Peace in Umuahia North, Propose Bold Solutions | SEE PHOTOS

In a significant move towards fostering lasting peace and conflict resolution, stakeholders, security agencies, and experts gathered in Umuahia North on Friday, February 7, 2025, to discuss pressing issues affecting the region. The Stakeholders Engagement on Peacebuilding, convened by Nduneri Udodirim Ugonna, provided a platform for deep discussions on security, drug abuse, and societal inequalities that threaten peace efforts.

The event, supported by the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP) and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network - Youth Nigeria, brought together top security officials, civil society representatives, and community leaders. The engagement aimed to address underlying causes of conflict and develop actionable solutions for sustainable peace in Umuahia North.

During the workshop, representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) presented key insights on their roles in ensuring peace and security.

The Assistant Commissioner of Police on Operations, Alabi Abel, representing the Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isah, highlighted the core responsibilities of law enforcement in maintaining order. He emphasized that peace enforcement requires active stakeholder engagement, community partnerships, and the strengthening of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC).

However, Abel acknowledged that law enforcement efforts sometimes face public resistance due to misunderstandings regarding legal enforcement measures. He urged the public to understand their rights while respecting the authority of security agencies.

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The NSCDC representative, ACC CE Okorie, stressed the importance of interagency collaboration in tackling security threats, particularly those linked to drug-related crimes.

The NDLEA's representative, ACN Ogunbiyi Akinde Joseph, shed light on the direct correlation between substance abuse and rising violence in Umuahia North. He noted that common substances such as alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine have significantly contributed to self-harm, domestic violence, and social instability.

"The consequences of drug abuse extend beyond the individual. It leads to emotional trauma, economic burdens, and social inequality,ÔÇØ Ogunbiyi stated.

To mitigate these effects, he proposed establishing drug rehabilitation centers, launching community-based intervention programs, and increasing public sensitization on substance abuse dangers. He emphasized the need for parents and educators to take an active role in preventing drug addiction among youths.

The panel sessions identified key strategies to foster peace, including tolerance advocacy, education, and community engagement. The collaboration between the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and NDLEA was also recommended to facilitate increased awareness and rehabilitation programs.

Additionally, stakeholders underscored the empowerment of women through education, political inclusion, and skill acquisition as a crucial step toward achieving sustainable peace. Speakers argued that women, being natural leaders with strong emotional intelligence, play an essential role in conflict resolution and societal stability.

Another major concern raised was religious and cultural discrimination, which has fueled divisions in the region. It was recommended that primary and secondary schools integrate peace education into their curricula to instill values of tolerance and respect from an early age.

In conclusion, the convener, Nduneri Udodirim Ugonna, reiterated that peacebuilding requires a collective effort from security agencies, civil society, and local communities. She urged all participants to work tirelessly towards breaking societal barriers and fostering mutual understanding.

"This engagement is a testament to our shared commitment to promoting peace and stability. Peace is not just a situation; it is a state of mind,ÔÇØ She stated.

With the insights shared and recommendations made, the event laid the groundwork for a new phase of peace advocacy and community-driven solutions in Umuahia North.

[caption id="attachment_185722" align="alignnone" width="1080"] ABIA: Stakeholders Unveil Shocking Barriers to Peace in Umuahia North, Propose Bold Solutions | SEE PHOTOS[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_185720" align="alignnone" width="1206"] Assistant Commissioner of Police on Operations, Alabi Abel, representing the Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isah[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_185719" align="alignnone" width="1223"] NSCDC representative, ACC CE Okorie[/caption]