2025 DEMOCRACY DAY: A CALL FOR DEEPENING PEACE AND CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION ACROSS NIGERIAN COMMUNITIES
By Bishop Innocent Rubiruka Solomon, Chairman, Taraba State Bureau For Peace And Conflict Management (TSBPCM)
The persistent conflicts between farmers and herders, armed banditry and terrorism pervading our Nigerian communities calls for strategic response especially as we celebrate Democracy Day in Nigeria. It is possible to restore back our good old days of peace and tranquility in Nigeria of today.
I congratulate His Excellency Dr Agbu Kefas the Executive Governor of Taraba State and The President of our great nation President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their immense contribution to Democratic processes in Nigeria. We pray for continuous strength for our leaders at all levels of governance in Nigeria and hope that the grace of God, His wisdom, knowledge and understanding will rest upon them to enable them always find ways to strengthen, deepen and practically demonstrate in their leadership the Democratic values, principles and processes that will guarantee the most needed sustainable peace in our Nigerian communities.
Democracy and community peace are intertwined. Democratic processes can foster a sense of shared governance, inclusivity, and respect for the rule of law, which are crucial for building and sustaining peace. Conversely, peace is a necessary condition for democracy to flourish, as conflict and insecurity undermine democratic institutions and processes.
DEMOCRACY AS A FOUNDATION FOR PEACE:
Democratic governance provides mechanisms for resolving conflicts peacefully, promoting citizen participation in decision-making, and ensuring accountability of those in power.
PEACE AS A PREREQUISITE FOR DEMOCRACY:
Conflict and violence erode the trust and stability necessary for democratic institutions to function effectively.
THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY:
Civil society organizations can play a vital role in promoting peaceful dialogue, fostering community engagement, and holding government accountable.
CHALLENGES AND COMPLEXITIES:
While democracy and peace are often linked, there are also challenges and complexities. Some argue that the transition to democracy can be a risky process, while others point to the importance of addressing inequalities and promoting inclusive governance. Both views are critical.
INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS:
International organizations like the United Nations and the Community of Democracies the World -over play a role in supporting democratic transitions and peacebuilding efforts. This must be strengthened and enhanced. International Peace Agencies must galvanize energies and efforts like never.
PEACE, CONGRATULATIONS AND HEARTY REFLECTION TO ALL NIGERIANS
LONG LIVE TARABA STATE.
AND LONG LIVE THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
