The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo State has called on residents to embrace dialogue, shun violence, and promote peaceful coexistence in their communities.
The State Commandant, Mr. Gbenga Agun, appealed on Monday in Benin shortly after officers of the command staged a peace march to mark the 2025 International Day of Peace. The event, organised by the command’s Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit, brought together NSCDC personnel, civil society groups, and peace advocates under the United Nations theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”
Agun explained that the corps’ responsibilities extend beyond security enforcement to promoting civility and protecting human rights. “As our name implies—Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps—our duties involve enforcing laws with civility and minimal force. In Edo, we avoid violence because where peace exists, development follows,” he said.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Uchegbu Evaristus, head of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit, outlined practical approaches to preventing disputes from escalating. He recommended arbitration, mediation, and negotiation as effective tools for conflict management, warning that even minor disagreements, such as a quarrel over a sachet of water, could trigger wider unrest if ignored.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Patience Agbonifo, a Superintendent of Corps, stressed that sustaining peace is a collective responsibility. “Peace enhances health and well-being, reduces stress and trauma, and fosters development. Instead of spending resources repairing damage caused by violence, such funds should be invested in infrastructure,” she said. Agbonifo highlighted compassion, forgiveness, gratitude, and prayer as key principles for sustaining harmony.
Also speaking, Mrs. Maria Okoh, Deputy Coordinator of Partners for Peace (P4P) in Edo, pledged stronger collaboration with the NSCDC to address emerging conflicts in the state. She urged officers to carry the message of peace to their homes, workplaces, and communities.