₦airaland Forum

*PeacePro Commends Governor Adeleke for Granting Clemency to 53 Inmates*

_Highlight its over a decade advocacy for Segun Olowookere's release_

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) expresses its profound appreciation to the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, for exercising his prerogative of mercy to pardon 53 inmates, including Mr. Segun Olowookere, who was sentenced to death a decade ago for stealing a fowl and other minor offences.

This act of compassion not only underscores the governor's commitment to justice and rehabilitation but also sets a remarkable example for the rest of Nigeria and beyond.

PeacePro has been deeply involved in advocating for the release of Mr. Olowookere and addressing systemic issues in Nigeria’s correctional facilities.

For over a decade, we pursued legal appeals on his behalf, and when judicial processes slowed, we petitioned the government for clemency.

Governor Adeleke’s historic decision aligns with PeacePro’s broader mission to decongest Nigeria’s correctional facilities and promote restorative justice.

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that over 80% of inmates in Nigeria are unsentenced, many of whom have been detained for periods longer than the maximum sentences for their alleged offences. This is a grave human rights issue that demands urgent attention.

While we celebrate this milestone, we emphasize that Mr. Olowookere’s case has become a symbol of hope, driving systemic change. His release, alongside 52 others, demonstrates the potential for leadership and advocacy to work together in addressing pressing societal issues.

We commend Governor Adeleke’s administration for not only granting clemency but for also giving a new lease on life to individuals who have shown good conduct and served significant portions of their sentences.

We urge other state governments to replicate this gesture by reviewing cases of unsentenced inmates, addressing prolonged pre-trial detentions, and fostering a justice system rooted in fairness and humanity.

PeacePro remains steadfast in its advocacy for national reforms to ensure timely trials, humane treatment of inmates, and the reduction of prison congestion.

We call on policymakers, judicial authorities, and the international community to support efforts aimed at upholding human rights and advancing justice in Nigeria.

Once again, we commend Governor Adeleke for his magnanimity and congratulate all the beneficiaries of this act of mercy. We encourage them to embrace this second chance and live purposeful lives that contribute positively to society.

Signed,
Abdulrazaq Hamzat
Executive Director
Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro)

*PeacePro Calls on African Union to Probe Russian Allegations of U.S. Biological Activities in Africa*

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), an African peacebuilding organization, has called on the African Union (AU) to urgently investigate claims by Russia accusing the United States of conducting covert biological research on the African continent.

The allegations, made by Alexey Shevtsov, Deputy Secretary of the Russian Security Council, accuse the U.S. of operating biological programs in several African nations, including Ghana, Djibouti, Kenya, and Nigeria.

Russia claims these programs involve pathogen isolation, sequencing, and research that could potentially lead to the development of ethnic-specific biological weapons.

In a statement released on Wednesday by Executive Director of PeacePro, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the group expressed deep concern over the geopolitical implications of these accusations and their potential impact on African sovereignty and security.

"The African Union must rise to the occasion by commissioning an independent investigation to verify these claims. The peace and well-being of over a billion Africans cannot be left at the mercy of unverified geopolitical assertions," the statement read.

PeacePro emphasized the need for Africa to assert its independence in global matters, stating that the continent cannot afford to be a battleground for superpower rivalries.

The allegations outlined by Russia include:

The establishment of a U.S. military medical center in Kenya to monitor infectious diseases in Central Africa.

Joint medical research programs in Nigeria, reportedly involving 10 specialists from the U.S. Department of Defense.

Pathogen research initiatives in Ghana and Djibouti.


While the U.S. has yet to respond to these allegations, PeacePro noted that the accusations demand urgent clarification, given their potential ramifications for public health and regional stability.

Hamzat underscored the importance of Africa taking a proactive stance.

"We cannot allow Africa to be used as a laboratory for experiments or as a theater for geopolitical confrontations," the organization said.

It urged African leaders to prioritize the security of the continent by demanding accountability from both the U.S. and Russia.

To ensure impartiality and trust, PeacePro has called for the AU to collaborate with international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), independent scientific bodies, and African research institutions to investigate the matter.

As global tensions between major powers escalate, the continent finds itself in the crosshairs of competing interests. PeacePro’s appeal to the AU underscores the importance of ensuring that Africa remains a zone of peace, free from exploitation or undue influence.

The international community will undoubtedly watch closely as the African Union considers its response to these allegations, which, if left unchecked, could have profound implications for global security and trust in international health systems.

PRESS RELEASE

OLAWEPO-HASHIM PREACHES LOVE, TOLERANCE AT CHRISTMAS

Monday, 23 December 2024, Abuja, Nigeria:

A former Presidential Candidate and a frontline politician, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has felicitated with the Christian faithfuls and the entire people of Nigeria as they join the rest of the world in celebrating Christmas.

In a statement released by his Media Office in Abuja on Friday, Olawepo-Hashim urged Christians and Nigerians, in the spirit of the season, to uphold the principles of love, tolerance and sacrifice to sustain harmony, progress and advance the cause of humanity.

Dr. Hashim added that the Christmas season represents joy, peace, hope, love, goodwill, all which are very much needed in our country at this time when we are confronted with diverse challenges of development.

According to him, “I celebrate with the Christian fold and enjoin all of us to remember the essence of Christmas. In the true spirit of the season, let’s show love to our neighbours, kindness to the less-privileged and vulnerable, and tolerance to one another across the lines of faith, politics and ethnicity; in the spirit of the unique sacrifice and teachings of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

“I urge fellow Nigerians to appropriate the hope that comes with Christmas and reinvest trust in God’s ability to restore the lost glory of Nigeria”

He equally admonished Nigerians to reflect on the lessons of the period and emulate Christ by fostering peace and unity in our Nation, while also tasking Nigerians on religious tolerance “since it is one way we as citizens can live in peace, harmony and love as taught by Jesus Christ, who is the reason for the season.”

“More importantly, as we observe Christmas this year, let us all imbibe the essential message of Christ’s ministry and truly begin to love our fellow Nigerians as we love ourselves," Olawepo-Hashim added.

- Ends -

*PeacePro Questions NBS Report, Calls for Investigation*

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), a prominent peacebuilding think tank, has raised serious concerns over a recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which claims that Nigeria experienced N2.23 trillion in ransom payments, 51.89 million crimes reported, and 615,000 deaths within a single year.

In a press statement signed by its Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, PeacePro described the figures as “practically impossible” and called on the NBS to clarify its methodology and data sources. The organization also criticized the Department of State Services (DSS) for its reported invasion of the NBS office and arrest of its leadership, emphasizing that accountability should be achieved through investigation, not intimidation.

Key Abnormalities in the NBS Report

1. Ransom Payments of N2.23 Trillion

PeacePro highlighted the implausibility of the claim that Nigerians paid N2.23 trillion in ransom within a year.

This would mean over N6.1 billion was paid daily for 365 consecutive days.

Given Nigeria’s cash flow limitations and the covert nature of ransom payments, such figures lack credibility without verifiable data from security agencies or financial systems.

2. Volume of Crimes Reported: 51.89 Million

The claim that 51.89 million crimes were reported in a single year was also questioned.

This figure represents almost one-fourth of Nigeria’s population and would require every police station, of which there are fewer than 6,000 nationwide, to process an average of 142,000 crime reports daily.

PeacePro noted that police records, the primary source of crime statistics, do not reflect such high numbers.

3. Deaths Reported: 615,000

The report’s assertion that 615,000 deaths occurred due to crime-related activities raised additional doubts.

This would amount to 1,680 deaths per day, a figure inconsistent with mortality data from health institutions and organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO).

PeacePro pointed out that the figures in the NBS report fail to align with credible data sources such as police records, health data, and security reports. The think tank suggested that if the figures were derived from surveys or third-party sources, the NBS must disclose its methodology to regain public trust.

“The release of such questionable data, without proper validation, undermines public trust in national statistics and has the potential to create unnecessary panic,” the statement read.

PeacePro recommended as follows:

1. Clarification from NBS

The NBS should provide a detailed explanation of how the figures were obtained, including their data sources and methodology.

If errors are found, the bureau should retract the report and issue a public apology.

2. Independent Review

An independent review of the report by statisticians, security experts, and other stakeholders is necessary to verify its claims.

3. Strengthening Data Systems

The government should invest in building the NBS’s capacity to collaborate effectively with agencies like the police and health institutions for reliable data collection.

PeacePro reiterated that accurate, credible data is critical for Nigeria’s development and urged all stakeholders to prioritize transparency and accountability. While the NBS plays a vital role in shaping national policy, reports like these must be thoroughly validated to prevent misinformation and maintain public trust.

Signed:
Abdulrazaq Hamzat
Executive Director, Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro)

Yes, we are

*PeacePro task UK conservative party to caution leader's divisive rhetorics*

_Says Badenoch’s inflammatory comments could set a troubling precedent for the UK_

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), a leading global peace advocacy organization, has raised concerns over comments made by Kemi Badenoch, the newly elected leader of the UK Conservative Party.

Badenoch’s remarks about Nigeria, particularly Northern Nigeria, have been described by PeacePro's Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat as “dismissive, segregatory, and capable of inciting disunity.”

In a recent statement by Executive Director Abdulrazaq Hamzat, PeacePro highlighted Badenoch’s comments on Nigeria, including her assertion that she is “not a PR representative for Nigeria” and her characterization of Northern Nigeria in what the organization called “inflammatory and divisive terms.”

Hamzat warned that such rhetoric not only undermines Nigeria’s internal cohesion but could also impact the broader Commonwealth, of which both nations are prominent members.

“These remarks are harmful on multiple levels,” said the Director of PeacePro.

“They risk exacerbating regional tensions in Nigeria and threaten Commonwealth unity.

Leaders in positions of global influence must prioritize diplomacy and sensitivity.”

Hamzat also expressed concerns that Badenoch’s rhetoric could set a troubling precedent for the UK itself, particularly in a multicultural society.

“If divisive practices are not addressed, there is a real risk of such rhetoric being exported to the UK, where it could deepen existing social divides,” the statement added.

PeacePro urged the UK Conservative Party to address the situation swiftly, emphasizing the importance of responsible leadership.

“The Conservative Party must ensure that its leader embodies values that promote unity and collaboration, both within the UK and across the Commonwealth,” PeacePro said.

PeacePro task UK conservative party to caution leader's divisive rhetorics

_Says Badenoch’s inflammatory comments could set a troubling precedent for the UK_

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), a leading global peace advocacy organization, has raised concerns over comments made by Kemi Badenoch, the newly elected leader of the UK Conservative Party.

Badenoch’s remarks about Nigeria, particularly Northern Nigeria, have been described by PeacePro's Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat as “dismissive, segregatory, and capable of inciting disunity.”

In a recent statement by Executive Director Abdulrazaq Hamzat, PeacePro highlighted Badenoch’s comments on Nigeria, including her assertion that she is “not a PR representative for Nigeria” and her characterization of Northern Nigeria in what the organization called “inflammatory and divisive terms.”

Hamzat warned that such rhetoric not only undermines Nigeria’s internal cohesion but could also impact the broader Commonwealth, of which both nations are prominent members.

“These remarks are harmful on multiple levels,” said the Director of PeacePro.

“They risk exacerbating regional tensions in Nigeria and threaten Commonwealth unity.

Leaders in positions of global influence must prioritize diplomacy and sensitivity.”

Hamzat also expressed concerns that Badenoch’s rhetoric could set a troubling precedent for the UK itself, particularly in a multicultural society.

“If divisive practices are not addressed, there is a real risk of such rhetoric being exported to the UK, where it could deepen existing social divides,” the statement added.

PeacePro urged the UK Conservative Party to address the situation swiftly, emphasizing the importance of responsible leadership.

“The Conservative Party must ensure that its leader embodies values that promote unity and collaboration, both within the UK and across the Commonwealth,” PeacePro said.

https://factualtimesng.com/peacepro-urges-uk-conservative-party-to-caution-badenochs-divisive-rhetorics/

odejimioflagos:
This is a commendable initiative.

True

yarimo:
But they have senator na in FCT

Surely, they do

TossTos:
Madam Ireti does not see any good is that congregation and she distanced herself..
Kudos to Hashim for the courageous movement..

We all see differently

Anither563:
This is wonderful. Gbenga Hashim is a true patriot. God bless Nigeria for ever!

Truly, he's

yarimo:
Shey labour party is not worth invited to the event

Maybe, maybe not.

I don't think LP is in charge of any local govt in fct

Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim Unites APC, PDP in FCT for National Unity

In a groundbreaking political development, former presidential candidate and renowned statesman, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has brought together the chairmen of all area council chapters of the two major political parties in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The historic meeting, which took place yesterday, was convened to promote national unity, prosperity, and security beyond political divides. Olawepo-Hashim’s initiative is seen as a timely intervention in a period when Nigeria faces challenges that require collective action and bipartisan cooperation.

Speaking during the event, Olawepo-Hashim emphasized the importance of prioritizing the nation's interest over partisan politics. “Our mission is clear—to restore Nigeria's unity, ensure prosperity for all, and guarantee security for our people. This can only be achieved when we work together, regardless of party affiliation,” he stated.

The chairmen of both APC and PDP in the FCT applauded the initiative, describing it as a bold step toward fostering peace and collaboration. They pledged to support efforts that prioritize the welfare of Nigerians above political competition.

This landmark meeting marks a rare display of political maturity and unity, as representatives of rival parties put aside their differences to discuss solutions for the country’s pressing challenges.

As the nation continues to navigate complex issues, this initiative by Olawepo-Hashim serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that Nigeria’s success depends on collective effort and shared commitment to national development.

Hashtags Shared by Olawepo-Hashim:

#Restoration: A call for the revival of Nigeria’s stability and growth.

#BetterNigeriawithGOH: A personal pledge to lead efforts toward national improvement.


This move has sparked widespread praise and is expected to inspire similar bipartisan collaborations across the country.

—End—

Tragedy of Crisis Communication in Nigeria’s Fight Against Insecurity

In Nigeria, it is not uncommon for authorities to announce the emergence of new terrorist groups to the media, inadvertently giving undue attention to threats that should be addressed internally. This approach undermines counterterrorism efforts and aids terrorist propaganda.

Terrorism thrives on visibility and propaganda. Most terrorist groups lack the capacity to attract media attention independently, which is why many pledge allegiance to established networks like ISIS. ISIS’s strength lies not in superior capability but in its robust propaganda infrastructure, which creates a perception of power, drives recruitment, attracts funding, and shapes public narratives.

Unfortunately, in Nigeria, government communication often helps these groups achieve their propaganda objectives. For instance, the recent announcement of the Lakurawa group by government officials has provided the group with significant visibility. Since this announcement, Lakurawa has gained media mentions and increased its audacious activities in Kebbi, despite existing for years unnoticed.

What exactly does the government hope to achieve by publicly announcing the existence of a terrorist group? Such communication serves no strategic purpose in the fight against insecurity. Instead, it elevates fringe groups and amplifies their reach.

A similar communication misstep occurred when a senior government official publicly promoted the activities of a terrorist group years ago. These careless utterances do more harm than good, giving these groups the recognition they crave and emboldening their actions.

Policy Reform: A strict policy on security communication should be established, limiting the unnecessary mention of fringe groups.

Propaganda Control: Authorities should focus on neutralizing threats internally without providing publicity to such groups.

Strategic Messaging: Communication should highlight government successes in counterterrorism while deliberately downplaying the activities of terrorist groups.

Nigeria must rethink its approach to crisis communication to deny terrorists the visibility they rely on to thrive. Silence, strategy, and discretion are critical tools in the war against insecurity.

Infrastructure of the Mind

Olam, a major commodity trading company in Kwara State, has been operating in Asa for years, buying up significant farm produce. Recently, the company established a new factory in Afon, signaling its growing presence and potential for community impact.

Given Asa’s vast farmland and the ready market provided by Olam, one would expect significant interest from youths in farming or efforts by the community to engage Olam in sustainable partnerships. Surprisingly, this is not the case. All they want is hand out, rent seeking etc.

Some months ago, a youth leader in the community mentioned plans to approach Olam to demand Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support. In my usual “oversabi” manner, I advised against asking for money. Instead, I suggested they request sustainable support like tractors, farming inputs, and fertilizers that could benefit the entire community in the long run.

I explained that if Olam provided such resources, it could enable everyone to farm, and with adequate monitoring, they could all benefit while Olam continues as an offtaker. However, the youth leader dismissed the idea outright, saying no one was interested in farming, they just wanted money.

I posed a simple question: If Olam gives you money this year, will they do the same next year? How much will each person get, and for how long will it last? I emphasized that tools like tractors and inputs could empower them to create lasting value, but the idea of sustainable growth was unappealing—they wanted quick cash.

Instead of focusing on farming, many of them resort to digging up surface sand to sell, destroying roads in the process, with a sense of entitlement. Some even take this irresponsibility further by stealing from farms.

Recently, a boy was caught stealing cassava from a farm owned by an elderly woman. Cases like this abound at the Afon police station. It’s baffling that able-bodied young men refuse to farm yet feel comfortable stealing from the hard work of others.

This situation reflects a deeper issue and our government and society must understand that the most critical infrastructure to build is the mindset of the people.

Without addressing this fundamental problem, development efforts will continue to yield limited results.

Let's talk about the problem of unwillingness to work

The primary issue facing Nigeria today is the lack of willingness among young people to engage in any real, productive work outside of activities like phone usage or entertainment.

Last week, Kwara Must Change took an important step by selling our farm produce, specifically yam, at a discounted rate directly to the public. In just three days, 40,000 tubers of yam was sold out, first to the university community inside University of Ilorin, then to others from outside, including sellers from alapa market.

This was the product of months of hard work on our part.

Interestingly, some of those who bought the yams were from Alapa market, which is known as the primary yam market in Kwara State, where prices are typically lower. Despite this, some main sellers from the market wanted to buy up all of our stock at once, but we chose not to sell to them.

Instead, we opted to make these goods available to consumers, small-scale buyers and sellers at reduced prices, ensuring fair access.

In planning our journey into agriculture, we faced a major obstacle, which is the lack of willing workers among the Nigerian youth.

Even in rural areas, finding young people ready to work on farms is rare. Despite high youth unemployment, there’s an equally high unwillingness to engage in serious, productive labor.

Many young people prefer activities such as rent-seeking, begging, or other unproductive means of making a living.

Due to this shortage of willing local labor, many farmers are turning to workers from neighboring countries like Togo and Benin Republic.

These foreign workers are deducted, reliable and typically engaged year-round and earn between N700,000 and N1 million annually.

In addition to this income, they receive food, shelter, and other daily essentials provided by the farm owner.

Their entire payment is saved and given to them in bulk at the end of the year.

To put this into perspective, with Nigeria’s minimum wage set at N30,000 per month last year, these workers’ annual income equates to approximately N65,000 per month.

Moreover, they incur no costs for food, transportation, or housing, as these are covered by the farm.

Over five years period, they can save around N4 million, enabling them to start a business or support their families upon returning home.

This situation is a call to action for young Nigerians to reevaluate their priorities.

With a shift in mindset, we can begin to harness the true potential of our youthful population. We need to embrace hard work and look toward productive ventures like agriculture that offer not only income but also long-term stability.

As young people in Nigeria, it’s time to step up and build a sustainable future.

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