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From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Federal Government has been urged to adopt non-kinetic measures in addressing insecurity in the South East, rather than relying solely on military force.
The call came from the Executive Director, Orlu Progressive Initiative (OPI), Ikechukwu Nwanabueze, during a media chat in Owerri, the Imo State capital, yesterday, to mark the International Day of Peace 2026.
With the theme “Peace Begins With Us,” Nwanabueze said sustainable peace in the South East requires dialogue, tolerance, and collective responsibility, not just peacekeeping operations.
“For us at the Orlu Progressive Initiative, peace is not just a word or an annual celebration. Peace is a responsibility that belongs to all of us,” he said.
He noted that peace goes beyond the absence of violence to building communities where people feel safe, where young people have hope, and where differences are resolved through dialogue, rather than hatred.
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Nwanabueze commended the Homeland Security outfit, but urged the Federal Government to change strategy and work with NGOs, youth leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil societies to strengthen peacebuilding.
“I thank God for Homeland Security, but the Federal Government may need to change its strategy. Government must approach peace building rather than the usual peacekeeping. Using a kinetic approach shouldn’t be the only option,” he said.
He said the people of the South East are tired of military operations like Operation Python Dance, Crocodile tears, adding that it is time to adopt a more subtle and inclusive approach to security.
Speaking on preparations for the 2027 general elections, Nwanabueze disclosed that OPI is convening the South East Peace and Stability Summit 2026 in Owerri, Imo State, on September 23, 2026. He said the summit, themed “Building Peace for a Prosperous Future,” will bring together stakeholders from across the South East to discuss practical ways of strengthening peace, security, social cohesion, and development, as well as modalities for a peaceful election.
“Peace does not mean that everyone must agree. Peace means that even when we disagree, we choose dialogue over violence and understanding over hatred. Development cannot thrive where there is persistent insecurity and division,” he added.
He urged citizens to reject hate speech, misinformation, drug abuse, and divisive conduct, and called on all Nigerians to become ambassadors of peace.
