Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, National Chairman of APGA advocates steps to return peace in political crisis-prone areas for the good people of the State. “Rivers and
Kano as a Case Study” – NDUKA ANYANWU
In the political landscape of a state, there are often contentious issues that can lead to conflicts and crises due to differing interests. However, it is essential to manage these conflicts in a way that does not hinder the progress and development of the state. Effective leadership and governance should prioritize the well-being and prosperity of the state and its citizens, ensuring that political differences do not undermine the state’s developmental trajectory.
To achieve this, stakeholders must engage in constructive dialogue, compromise, and collaboration to find solutions that balance competing interests and promote the greater good.
Some of the measures that could be applied to restore peace in political crisis states may include:
1. Dialogue, Negotiation, and Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Encourage open communication between conflicting parties to resolve issues peacefully and
establish frameworks to address grievances and disputes.
2. Political Reforms and Solution: Implement reforms to address underlying issues and promote inclusivity. Advocate for a political solution that addresses the
grievances of all parties involved, including the state government, political parties, and stakeholders as well as ensuring equitable power sharing and resources fairly among different groups.
3. Federal Government Intervention, Reconstruction, and Reconciliation: Focus on rebuilding and promoting national unity and urging the Federal Government to intervene and provide a neutral platform for dialogue and negotiation, and to ensure the protection of lives and properties in the State.
4. Respect for Rule of Law: Emphasize the need for all parties to respect the rule of law and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to desist from actions that could undermine the peace process.
5. Economic Development: Address economic grievances and promote
economic growth.
6. External Mediation, Ceasefire Agreements, and Humanitarian Aid: Engage neutral third-party mediators to facilitate negotiations, establish immediate ceasefires to stop violence, and provision of aid to affected populations and the vulnerable.
7. Justice and Accountability: Address human rights violations and ensure accountability.
8. Security Sector Reform: Reform security forces to ensure neutrality and professionalism.
9. Election Reforms: Ensure free, fair, and credible elections, especially at the state levels and prone locations.
These measures can help alleviate tensions, address underlying issues, and promote sustainable peace in political crisis states. By doing so, the state can maintain stability, foster inclusive growth, and continue to make progress despite political differences for in the brotherhood we stand!!!. APGA believes that peace can be restored in political crisis-prone states such as Rivers and Kano State, and the state can be put back on the path of progress and development – APGA, the emergence of a neo-political party for equity justices and fairness – profoundly known with the philosophy of hospitality, love and acceptance! “– BE YOUR BROTHERS’ KEEPER”
Note: This brief article is written on behalf of Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, the APGA National Chairman
