The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has expressed concern over the security challenges facing mankind.
The Institute noted that violent extremism has pushed people to elevate carnage, destruction of lives and property, disrespect for human rights and humanitarian laws beyond human comprehension.
The Director General Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Bakut Bakut made this known while declaring open the 5th international conference on love and tolerance: countering violent extremism for peaceful co-existence held in Abuja in conjunction with UFUK Dialogue Foundation.
Dr. Bakut who was represented by the head of Research and Policy Analysis, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu stated that love and tolerance are vital in countering security challenges. He added that love and tolerance are key drivers of positive human relationships.
The Director, General, said, “all over the world, stakeholders are concerned about the growing level of violent extremism in many parts of the world”.
“This concern has been worsened by the effective deployment of modern information and communication technology to propagate extremists’ views and actions across national boundaries”.
However, Dr. Bakut said there was hope of reversing the trend if humanity can imbibe love and tolerance. “These virtues need to be appreciated and viewed as universal norms of human thought, spirituality and solidarity.. It will foster peaceful co-existence among people of different backgrounds.”
Bakut pointed out that promotion of the culture of love and tolerance will not only override divisive tendencies, but will further reduce the chances of providing havens for any violent extremist groups.
“I strongly believe that diversities, when managed very well, will remain a strong pillar of national development,” Dr. Bakut, said.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Paulin Tallen urged Nigerians to learn love, tolerance and peaceful co-existence. Mrs. Tallen who was represented by her Special Adviser on Technical matters, Princes Jummai Idonije advised Nigerians to view our diversity as our strength by emphasizing on what united us rather than what divides us as a people.
Earlier, the President of the UFUK Dialogue, Mr. Kamil Kemachi said that his organization would continue to partner with IPCR in promoting peace in the country.
