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Lagos Govt Applauds Residents for Fostering Peace

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3 months ago

Sep 25, 2024.

Lagos State Government has expressed gratitude to its residents for creating an environment of peace and cooperation, which has played a vital role in enabling the execution of numerous life-enhancing projects.

According to the government, the peaceful coexistence among Lagosians has been instrumental in pushing forward key developments, especially in infrastructure, healthcare, and social welfare.

In observance of the 2024 International Day of Peace, the government reiterated its commitment to promoting peace and resolving conflicts through dialogue.

At a Monday event at the Citizens’ Mediation Centre, Alausa, held to mark the global occasion on September 21, Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, spoke on the government’s dedication to maintaining a peaceful environment for conflict resolution.

Mr. Pedro, represented by Mrs. Kehinde Taiwo, Director of Commercial Law, Ministry of Justice, applauded the efforts of the Lagos State Citizens’ Mediation Centre (CMC) in fostering peace.

He emphasized that the Centre has been a crucial resource for those in conflict, positioning itself as a model for conflict resolution in the state.

The Attorney-General specifically praised the CMC’s role in mediating disputes, ranging from family conflicts to landlord-tenant disagreements, stressing that peaceful resolutions have proven more effective than contentious legal battles.

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“The impact of the CMC’s work cannot be overstated,” noted the Attorney-General, highlighting that the Centre has become a beacon of hope, especially for underprivileged residents seeking peaceful solutions instead of pursuing legal confrontations.

In light of the rising demand for mediation services, the Lagos State Government is planning to open new centres in Imota, Ketu, and Surulere.

This expansion aims to bring mediation services closer to residents, ensuring that more people can access conflict resolution mechanisms.

The Director of the CMC, Mrs. Biola Oseni, reflected on the theme for this year’s celebration, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,” and its resonance with both global and local efforts to promote justice and mutual respect.

She acknowledged the United Nations’ initiatives in peacekeeping and conflict resolution, which have been pivotal in stabilizing regions and fostering sustainable development worldwide.

Mrs. Oseni revealed that the CMC has successfully mediated over 400,000 cases since its inception, tackling a wide range of issues from landlord-tenant disputes to monetary claims.

She stressed that the Centre is dedicated to ensuring a just and peaceful society at the grassroots level.

“Peace is not just about the absence of war or conflict,” said Mrs. Oseni, “It’s also about creating a society where individuals can coexist in harmony, trust that justice will prevail, and resolve their differences through dialogue.”

United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Elsie Gyekyewaa Attafuah, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the International Day of Peace as a reminder of the global responsibility to uphold peace and security.

Gyekyewaa stressed the importance of investing in sustainable development initiatives that address the root causes of instability and help cultivate a culture of peace within communities.

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