One of your fundamental rights as humans and as Nigerians is Peace.
That is why the theme of this Year’s (2014) International Day of Peace is “The Right of Peoples to Peace”.
Unfortunately, this peace has somewhat eluded us. Daily, in
contemporary times, we have lived in fear and panic due to several tragic
events that we have heard and even witnessed. From religious killings,
abductions, political violence and now terrorism, there has been insecurity and
unrest at various times in the last couple of years.
While it is the responsibility of the government of the day to ensure
the security of its people, the people also have a responsibility to support
the government's efforts. As we lament and complain about the prevalence of
violence, it is pertinent to remember that the kidnappers, the political thugs
and assassins, the armed robbers, the religious extremists and suicide-bombers
come from amongst us! The people perpetuating violence are not aliens – they
are people's children, family or friends.
The onus is on you, reading this, to work against the prevalence of
violence
by refusing to indulge in any act of violence,
by dissuading and discouraging others from
indulging in violence and, most importantly, by teaching your children –
and indeed every child – to be peace-loving and nonviolent.
As they grow, children and youths must be reminded to always embrace
peace and reject violence in resolving their daily conflicts. This will reduce
their chances of indulging in violent enterprise, now or in the future. Every
adult has this responsibility in words and action, if the culture of violence
must be eliminated.
You do not only have a right to peace; you also have the right to ENCOURAGE
and SUSTAIN PEACE.
