…Violence eroding people’s livelihood – Governors
The British government has warned the rise in conflicts can destabilise Nigeria’s democracy in the run-up to the 2023 elections.
The warning came even as the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, (NGF), declared that the level of insecurity across the country is not only eroding citizens’ safety and peoples’ means of livelihood, but also threatening the expression of the rights of Nigerians.
The two sides both spoke at the launch of the NGF Peace and Inclusive Security Initiative in Abuja on Thursday.
The Development Director, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, (FCDO), Chris Beecroft, in his goodwill message, blamed the frequent crisis across the country on injustice and impunity, as well as weak justice institutions in the country, noting, however, that peace and stability could be achieved when the causes of conflict in society are managed through strong, fair, and responsive governance mechanisms at community, State, or federal level.
He stressed that the conflict represents an existential threat to Nigeria’s unity and its development.
According to him, the proliferation of small arms and weapons and the weaponisation of social media, are drivers of conflict and instability.
He called for job creation for young Nigerians “so they have a stake in a prosperous and peaceful Nigeria,” adding, however, that “with the right commitment, dedications and support, there are solutions”.
