NSCDC Urges Advocacy Network To Sensitise Bauchi Youths On Civil Unrest Prevention
By Khalid Idrid Doya
The Nigerian Security & Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has urged Bauchi Religious Advocacy Youth Network to sensitise the youths, especially the religious fanatics among the two major religions Islam and Christianity in the state on the causes that can lead to civil unrest in the society.
The Bauchi State Commandant of the Corps, Oloyede Nelson Oyerinde who made the observation in Bauchi yesterday, said that such unrest often led to the destruction of properties and lives of innocent people.
Receiving a delegation of Bauchi Religious Advocacy Youth Network and Search for Common Ground during an advocacy visit to his office, the commandant noted that religion also leads to deprive people of interpersonal relationships, as well as people working in a peaceful environment.
Mr Oloyede commended the network for coming up with such a laudable programme of promoting interfaith harmony among youths in the state.
Describing the programme as a beautiful one, Oyerinde explained that the sensitisation would go a long way in checkmating any possible crisis that may break out as a result of misunderstanding.
He also assured the network of the Command’s readiness to assist it achieve its set objective.
Speaking earlier, the advocacy network team lead, Garba Surama said that their advocacy focuses on promoting interfaith harmony, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among youth in Bauchi state.
According to him, freedom of religion and belief is a cornerstone of democratic societies, enabling individuals to practice their faith freely, without fear of persecution or discrimination, expressing worrisome that Nigeria has witnessed instances of religious intolerance, hate speech, and violence, which undermines the fundamental right of citizens.
Surama told the NSCDC, “We believe that the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps plays a vital role in preventing and resolving conflicts, and we would like to request your support and partnership in promoting our objectives”.
“We appreciate the efforts of the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps in maintaining peace and security in Bauchi State. As a key stakeholder in maintaining public safety and security, the NSCDC has a vital role to play in advancing freedom of religion and belief”.
Mr. Garba Surama requested the NSCDC’s support in organising interfaith dialogue sessions to bring together young people from different religious backgrounds to promote understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
He added, “We request the Commandant’s support for community-based initiatives that promote interfaith harmony, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among youth in Bauchi state”.
Surama concluded, “By working together, we can promote a culture of peace, tolerance, and understanding among young people in Bauchi State, and contribute to a more harmonious and secured society”.
