APGA CHAIRMAN OPINED ON NIGERIA AND THE DEATH OF OUR MILITARY PERSONNEL IN OKUAMA, DELTA STATE – “ISSUES AND REMEDY” – WRITTEN BY NDUKA ANYANWU, SA, MEDIA TO THE NATIONAL CHAIRMAN APGA, BARRISTER SLY EZEOKENWA
There have been security challenges in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, including issues related to militancy, pipeline vandalism, and communal conflicts etc. These challenges have had significant economic, social, and political implications for the region and the country as a whole.
While we cannot go into details of these crises especially the current emerging issues, sending the military to resolve local/community crises otherwise communal conflicts which is often related to disputes over land, resources, and political power, have contributed to the insecurity in the Niger Delta.
That these conflicts sometimes escalate into violence, resulting in loss of lives and displacement of communities shows the failure of the internal security architecture in Nigeria especially with the loss of confidence in the Police whose responsibility it is.
However, such deadly Peace Building mission was carried out by the Military at Okuama, which resulted to the sudden death of the 16 fallen Heroes. – The APGA Chairman, Barrister Sly EZEOKENWA, having offered some general insights into these issues wishes to give some potential remedies that will aid a peaceful atmosphere in our communities.
1. Need for Addressing Root Causes: It is essential to address the root causes of the conflicts and militancy in the Niger Delta. These root causes often include socio-economic marginalization, environmental degradation, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to basic services. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach that includes inclusive
economic development, job creation, poverty reduction, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Dialogue and Peace Building: Engaging in constructive dialogue with stakeholders, including local communities, youth groups, and ex-militants, is crucial. This dialogue should aim to address grievances, resolve conflicts, and foster a sense of inclusion and belonging. Peace building efforts, such as reconciliation processes and community-driven initiatives, can help to build trust and restore stability in the affected areas.
3. Enhanced Security Measures: Strengthening security measures is essential to combat militancy and ensure the safety of communities and infrastructure. This includes deploying well-trained and adequately equipped security forces to deter criminal activities, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain law and order. Coordinated efforts between security agencies, intelligence gathering, and information sharing are crucial for effective operations.
4. Community Development and Empowerment: Promoting community development and empowerment initiatives is vital for long-term peace and stability. This involves providing access to education, healthcare, clean water, and electricity, as well as supporting sustainable livelihood opportunities. Engaging communities in decision-making processes and involving them in the development and management of natural resources can help foster a sense of ownership and reduce tensions.
5. Accountability and Rule of Law: Upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for criminal activities are crucial elements in resolving the crises in the Niger Delta. This includes prosecuting individuals involved in pipeline vandalism, illegal oil bunkering, and other criminal acts. Simultaneously, ensuring transparent and accountable governance at all levels is essential in addressing corruption and building trust between the government and the people.
6. Sustainable Environmental Practices: The Niger Delta region has suffered from severe environmental degradation due to oil exploration and related activities. Implementing sustainable environmental practices, including proper waste management, land restoration, and the enforcement of environmental regulations, is crucial to mitigate further damage and promote ecological sustainability.
7. Regional Cooperation: Addressing the crises in the Niger Delta requires collaboration and cooperation among relevant stakeholders at the regional, national, and international levels. Engaging neighboring countries, international organizations, and oil companies in initiatives aimed at sustainable development, peace building, and conflict resolution can help address the challenges more effectively.
It is important to note that the specific dynamics and circumstances surrounding the crises in the Niger Delta may have evolved. The Chairman is of the opinion that the Government take a very proactive measures to deal with this situation taking into cognizance the location this crisis is erupting – as well should use a similar measure in ensuring the entire state – Nigeria is protected from such form of crisis, Kidnapping, Boko Haram, Unknown Gunmen, and banditry
Also the security architecture of the nation be redesigned to meet the modern day’s security surveillance and policing for a better future for all!
For and on-behalf of APGA, National; Office of the Chairman
