Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has advised agitators in Nigeria and other parts of the world to adopt non-violent solutions to the rising tensions across the globe.
Obaseki made the recommendation on the occasion of the commemoration of the International Day of Non-Violence, marked on October 2, each year.
He said, “From the South-East to South-West, the Central states, the North-East and other parts of Nigeria as well as in North America, Western Europe, the Middle East and Asia, political tensions are on the rise over the ownership and control of natural resources, political ideologies, geographical boundaries, creation of states and political participation”.
The governor explained that “while several tactics such as restiveness, arms struggle, bombings and hate-laden speeches, are being adopted to push home these demands by the various agitators, evidence shows that the best option to resolving such feelings of perceived marginalization, disaffection or discontent, is rooted in non-violence.”
He urged dissenting groups to come to the roundtable and maintained that “When everything else fails, non-violent approach has proven to be reliable as it allows for continuous dialogue, realignment of interests, open and frank conversations, endurance and forgiveness of human mistakes and the conviction that our perceived critics today, could become our most dependable allies and partners after honest discussions.”
Obaseki further said that the late Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence and in whose honour the day is celebrated, every October 2, left a model for contemporary leaders to follow.
His words, “Gandhi contributed to global leadership models with his passive resistance or non-violence teaching, and with it, he led Indian people to independence, without applying the principle of an eye for an eye”.
“Non-violence is still a viable and potent conflict resolution model even today, and should be explored by thought leaders and opinion moulders instead of the rush to unconventional tactics that leave in their wake, deaths, sorrow, regrets and debts.”
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The commemoration of the International Day of Non-violence was established by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution in 2007 and it is an occasion to disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness.
According to the UN, “the resolution reaffirms the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence and the desire to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence
Meanwhile, Mr. Obaseki has said his administration would take advantage of opportunities in the agricultural sector and provide requisite support to communities that are ready to open up their land for agricultural investment.
Obaseki said this while delivering a goodwill message at the 2017 Sobe Day Celebration held at Uhebe Community in Sobe, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
He said that the state was driving economic growth by encouraging investments in agriculture and allied industries so that Edo will not only become self-sufficient in food production but also diversify its revenue base.
The governor, who was represented by the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, said the state government identified the resolve of the Sobe people, who as an agrarian community were ready to welcome investments in agriculture, and stepped in to provide them with the necessary support to expand their operations.
He commended Sobe community for contributing to economic development by actively promoting and investing in agriculture.
He said the community’s appeal for qualitative healthcare and education aligns with his government’s priorities. “Primary healthcare and basic education are part of our priorities as an administration and we are working to develop primary healthcare Centre’s in the state as well as laying a good foundation in basic education for our children at the early stage in their life,” he said.
The Odiabiado of Sobe, His Royal Highness, Anthony Ero Aleburu 1 expressed delight for the 2017 Sobe Day Celebration, noting that the people started marking the day since 1991 and that the event was in its 26th edition. He called for the sustenance of peace and security, adding that no society can develop without relative peace.
Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Smart Uhakheme, said that the celebration has not only occupied a major spot on Sobe’s festival calendar but also has become a permanent feature in the life of Sobe people.
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