By Afnews Editor The British government Thursday expressed worry over the rise in conflicts capable of destabilising Nigeria’s democracy ...
By Afnews Editor
The British government Thursday expressed worry over the
rise in conflicts capable of destabilising Nigeria’s democracy in the run-up to
the 2023 elections.
Also, the governors said the level of insecurity in various
parts of the country was not only eroding citizens safety and peoples means of
livelihood, but threatening the expression of the rights of all Nigerians.
They spoke at the launch of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum
(NGF) Peace and Inclusive Security Initiative (PISI) in Abuja
Addressing the gathering, Development Director Foreign,
Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Chris Beecroft, said the frequent
crisis across the country on injustice and impunity, as well as weak justice
institutions in the country were major threats to the nation’s democracy.
He , however, said peace and stability could be achieved
when the causes of conflict in society were managed through strong, fair, and
responsive governance mechanisms at community, state, or federal level.
“The rise in conflict risks destabilising Nigeria’s
democracy in the run-up to the 2023 elections. There is an active insurgency in
the North East; farmer-herder conflicts are extending across the country;
resource conflicts in the Delta; tension in the South-East; and banditry in the
North West.
“Conflict destroys lives, destroys livelihoods, destroys
hope and ambition for the future. Conflict represents an existential threat to
Nigeria’s unity and its development.”
While saying the use of the police and army could only be
part of the solution, Beecroft called for greater emphasis “on reconciliation,
mediation, arbitration, and access to justice – all vital components of a
vibrant, resilient, and effective social contract.”
He also said proliferation of small arms and weapons and the
weaponisation of social media, are drivers of conflict and instability.
The FCDO chief made a case for job creation for young
Nigerians “so they have a stake in a prosperous and peaceful Nigeria.”
“The UK is pleased to have been able to support this
initiative and is committed to continue working with the Nigeria Governors
Forum (NGF) in advancing its peace and security agenda.
“The UK is engaged in supporting Nigeria to reduce violent
conflict in a number of areas. We promote a regional response in the North East
and Lake Chad Basin through our contribution to the Regional Stabilisation
Facility (RSF) and delivery of programmes on peace building, humanitarian
assistance, protection of civilians, human development, good governance and
accountability,” he said.
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