World Peace
World Peace Day: IPCR Calls for Adherence to COVID-19
Protocols
The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has
called on the general public to adhere strictly to the NCDC
protocols on COVID-19 with a view to preventing the spread of the
pandemic in the country.
The Director General of the Institute Dr. Bakut T. Bakut made
the call on Monday 21st September, 2020 in Awka, Anambra State at
the occasion to mark 2020 World Peace Day celebration.
The Director General who was represented by Grace Awodu,
Chairlady, local Organizing Committee, World Peace Day, said that
because of the COVID-19 pandemic, celebration of the 2020 World
Peace Day was low-key.
He said the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution through
South-East Zonal Office is collaborating with people and Anambra
State Government to organize “Peace Summit” in Awka, Anambra State
to mark the Day.
Dr. Bakut further observed that COVID-19 is still present in the
country, the danger of community spread still looms large and as
such all efforts must be in place to resist further spread through
adhering to the preventive measures prescribed by Nigeria Centre
for Diseases Control (NCDC).
The IPCR Boss enthused “I appeal to all to embrace the advice on
physical distancing, wearing of facemask, sanitizing or washing of
hands and caution in social gatherings.”
Dr. Bakut further explained that conflict is a major distraction
of efforts being made at combating the COVID-19 Pandemic and other
diseases in Nigeria. He said resources, energy and time are wasted
in quelling conflicts at the expense of facing the COVID-19 and
other health related diseases.
The Director General call for an end to all forms of violence,
armed banditry and criminality in Nigeria. He advocated for the use
of dialogue in the management of conflict.
While speaking on the theme of the event “Shaping Peace
Together” Dr. Bakut called on State Government and non-
governmental organization to mark the day by spreading compassion,
kindness and hope in the face of the pandemic.
He urged Nigerians to stand against any attempt to use the virus
to promote stigmatization, conflict and criminality in Nigeria.
Musa Mato
Head Media