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Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has said peace and tolerance are essential in resolving and preventing conflicts, urging governments at all levels to be fair to all citizens irrespective of religious, economic or political differences.
He noted being tolerant on issues capable of degenerating into a crisis could help to suppress feelings of marginalisation, which may lead to conflict.
Obaseki who stressed the need for dialogue and tolerance in resolving all religious, ethnic, communal and political conflicts, noted that such an approach would engender peace and sustainable development.
The governor said this in commemoration of the International Day of Non-Violence marked on October 2 every year by the United Nations (UN) and its allied organisations.
His words: “When everything else fails, the non-violent approach has proven to be reliable in resolving conflicts.
“It allows for continuous dialogue, realignment of interests, open and frank conversations, endurance and forgiveness of human mistakes and the conviction that our perceived enemies could become dependable allies and partners after reaching a compromise.
“It is important for leaders of thought to look at past attempts in conflicts resolution in order to consider ideas for the future. To maintain peaceful coexistence and socio-economic development, governments must adopt strategies for inclusion and harmonious living in dealing with conflicts.
“The non-violence approach remains a viable and potent conflict resolution model even today, and should be explored by mediators and opinion moulders instead of the rush to unconventional tactics that leave sorrow, regrets, debts or deaths in their wake.”
Meanwhile, Obaseki yesterday approved the termination of appointments of all his Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants with immediate effect.
A statement issued by Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, disclosed that the development was in line with efforts to reorganise the governance structure to enhance service delivery in the state.
“Fresh appointments will be announced within the next 30 days. The state government remains grateful to the outgoing assistants for their services and assures of continued cordial relationship in the years ahead.
“They are hereby directed to hand over all government property and documents in their possession to the office of Secretary to the State Government,” the statement reads.
