By Sunny A. David, Awka
As part of activities marking the 2025 United Nations International Day of Peace, peace advocacy groups in Anambra State have called on political parties, candidates, and their supporters to promote peace ahead of the November 8 governorship election.
The call was made during a peace march held on September 20 in Awka. The procession, which started from UNIZIK Junction and ended at Alex Ekwueme Square, featured participants from several organizations committed to peace and development.
These included the Peace and Positive Living Awareness Centre (UN-PEPOLAC), Rotary Clubs, the Anambra Peace and Mediation Working Commission, and the Institute for Peace, Security and Development Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
Addressing the participants, Professor Chukwuemeka Jaja Nwanegbo, Director of the Institute for Peace and Development, emphasized the importance of responsible conduct during the election period.
“Anambra is greater than any political ambition. After the election, the State will still stand. We must avoid inflammatory comments and actions that could lead to violence because no one benefits when peace is lost,” he warned.
Dr. Festus Ozioma Ozoemena, International President of UN-PEPOLAC, said the peace march was a clear message to politicians and the general public on the importance of peace during elections.
“When peace is not prioritized, elections often lead to crisis and prolonged court battles. Campaigns should be about ideas and solutions not insults or hate speech. Elections will pass, but Anambra remains,” he stated.
Also lending his voice, Ichie Damian Okeke Ogene, immediate past National Vice President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, urged politicians and their followers to act with restraint.
“What we are witnessing in Anambra’s political space is not healthy. We must transition to issue-based politics. Anambra has a reputation for peace and it must be preserved,” he said.
Professor Cornelius Ukwueze of the Mass Communication Department at Nnamdi Azikiwe University described the peace march as a necessary reminder of the critical role peace plays in democratic processes.
“This is a wake-up call. Security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must work to ensure a peaceful and credible election. Without peace, there can be no development,” he noted.
The peace march highlighted the collective commitment of civil society, academia, and traditional institutions to safeguarding democracy and sustaining peace in Anambra State.
