Indigenous ethnic nationalities in Delta State, particularly those of the Ijaw, the Itsekiri, and the Urhobo in Warri Federal Constituency of the state, have been called upon to embrace the 'Act Now for a Peaceful World' theme of the International Day of Peace, also officially known as World Peace Day—a United Nations-sanctioned holiday that is observed annually on 21 September.

According to the UN, the "World Peace Day is dedicated to world peace, and specifically the absence of war and violence, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone for humanitarian aid access".

Marking the WPD at its Africa 4 Peace Games Village and Gym Center in Ugolo near Osubi, Okpe local council area of the state, on Monday, September 22, Comrade (Chief) Sheriff Mulade Ph.D, the National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) reminded Deltans that "peace is not just a dream, but a necessity for a thriving world."

While delivering a presentation, Comrade Mulade, who is the Ibe Serimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, emphasise the importance of the theme and called on all stakeholders to embrace for the good and development of the State.

He said: "As we gather today, we are reminded that peace is not just a dream, but a necessity for a thriving world. This theme calls upon us to take immediate action, to be proactive, effective, and to be responsible stewards of peace. Let us use this occasion to reflect on our individual and collective roles in fostering peace and peaceful coexistence, understanding, and cooperation.

"Let me, once again, urge our dear traditional rulers, community leaders and youths in Delta State, and Nigeria at large, not to give room for violence or be used to foment crises in the state. Rather, they should continue to support and endeavour to promote peaceful coexistence among the various ethnic nationalities of Urhobo, Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, and Anioma people in Delta State.

"Let me use this day to strongly appeal particularly to my dear people—Ijaws, Itsekiris and Urhobo ethnic nationalities in Warri Federal Constituency of Delta State—to embrace peaceful coexistence among themselves, devoid of divide-and-rule ethnic infiltrators, crisis sponsors and beneficiaries, to allow Warri enjoy her peace and beauty of development."

In what could be seen as a subtle remark in response to an earlier comment allegedly credited to the Governor of the State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the renowned human and environmental justice activist asserted that: 

"It is imperative to state categorically that there is 'NO OPEN TICKET' for crisis beyond 2031 in Warri Federal Constituency. Warri needs permanent peace more than elections and voters, which will create a conducive atmosphere to attract investors, employment opportunities, and development to our communities.

"Together, we can make a difference in Warri and Delta State. Let us act now to promote peace, justice, and equality, and to build a world where everyone can live with dignity and respect."

The CEPEJ Boss appealed to all Deltans to join hands together and to support the state government at all times so as to benefit from infrastructural projects which breeds development.

"Once again, let me strongly appeal to all Deltans and residents to give maximum support and cooperation to His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State to enable us enjoyed the dividend of democracy and development in our dire state.

"I sincerely thank Nigerians for joining the world to celebrate and commemorate this important day for a more peaceful world," he said in the closing of his presentation.

Among some of the personalities in attendance are the Founder of Shedrack Agediga Foundation (SAF) and Chairman of Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board, Comrade Shedrack Agediga; FRSC Rep. Florence Itimi, NSCDC Rep. Ese Eti, ED of Value Rebirth and Empowerment Initiative and South South Coordinator of Male Feminist Network, Pastor Edewor Egedegbe; President of Anthony Okoro Okiero Foundation, Amb. Anthony Okoro Okiero; SSA to Delta State Governor on Human Rights, Activist Kelvin Ejumudo; Ideal Women Advancement Initiative and CAN Rep. Mrs Bright Affiah.

Communities in the State that participated are Ugolo, Osubi, Okuokoko, Okurowhe, Okorikpehre, Orerokpe, Ughwagba, Oha, Ogbe-Ijoh, Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youth among others.

View photos here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DbDZaJJSJ/

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