JUNE 12: Monarch Harps  On Peace, Conflict Resolution Ahead Of 2027

As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day today, the Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Eze Gbakagbaka, King Leslie Eke, has called for deliberate peace-building and intentional conflict resolution among politicians and their supporters as the nation advances toward the 2027 general elections.

He made the demand when he spoke with newsmen at his palace in Woji Community Obio Akpor Local Government Area within the week.

 King Eke described June 12 as a defining national symbol of sacrifice and collective aspiration for a democratic society built on justice, inclusion and peaceful coexistence.

The revered monarch who also is the Chairman Supreme Council of Ikwerre Government Recognized Traditional Rulers and President Association of Christian Traditional Rulers of Nigeria+AOCTRON), said democracy can only achieve its true purpose where political participation is guided by maturity, respect and responsible engagement rather than hostility and unhealthy rivalry.

“The occasion should serve as a period of reflection for political leaders and citizens to recommit themselves to preserving unity and protecting democratic values”, he said.

According to the traditional ruler, political competition must never be allowed to create divisions capable of weakening communities and damaging relationships built over generations.

He expressed concern over rising political intolerance, inflammatory comments and unhealthy confrontations among supporters of opposing interests, warning that such tendencies pose avoidable risks to peace and development.

King Eke maintained that while disagreement remains natural in every democratic environment, leaders and followers must intentionally embrace dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms.

He noted that no political ambition should become more valuable than human lives, community stability and the long-term progress of society.

The monarch urged politicians to demonstrate leadership beyond election campaigns by promoting reconciliation, understanding and issue-based engagements.

He also called on youths to resist being used as instruments of division, encouraging them instead to become ambassadors of peace and responsible civic participation.

King Eke further appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, families and community stakeholders to intensify advocacy for tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence across political lines.

The royal father therefore,  charged Nigerians to make June 12 more than a ceremonial observance by embracing democratic values capable of strengthening national unity, insisting that intentional peace and constructive conflict resolution remain indispensable pillars for sustaining democracy and securing the future of generations yet unborn.

King Onunwor