By Lilian Ezejiegu
As the world marks the International Day of Non-Violence on Oct. 2, Anambra State has an opportunity to reinforce the values of responsible dialogue, lawful conflict resolution and community cooperation in protecting lives and sustaining development.
The annual observance, established by the United Nations in 2007, coincides with the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, whose philosophy of non-violence influenced movements for social and political change across the world.
For Anambra, the message is especially relevant to the way disagreements are handled at the community level. Traditional rulers, presidents general of town unions, village leaders, religious institutions, youth organisations and women’s groups all have important roles in identifying tensions early and encouraging constructive engagement before disputes become more difficult to resolve.
Non violence does not mean ignoring grievances. Genuine concerns can be raised and addressed through established community structures, mediation and lawful channels without threats, intimidation or destruction of property.
This responsibility also extends to social media. In an era when a rumour, provocative message or unverified claim can spread rapidly, residents should verify information before sharing it and avoid posts capable of inflaming tensions between individuals or communities.
Young people have a particularly important role. Families, schools, churches and community organisations should encourage them to develop empathy, tolerance, respect and the ability to resolve disagreements constructively.
For Ndi Anambra, marking the day should therefore go beyond speeches and ceremonies. Residents can make a practical contribution by reporting emerging tensions to appropriate authorities, refusing to participate in retaliation, avoiding inflammatory messages, supporting legitimate mediation efforts and helping vulnerable people during periods of tension.
Community leaders, in turn, should keep channels of communication open and respond early when disagreements arise. These everyday actions can help protect lives, preserve livelihoods and keep communities focused on development.
The International Day of Non Violence reminds us that the responsibility for peaceful communities begins with what each person chooses to say and do. In Anambra, that choice can be made today in our homes, streets, markets, schools, places of worship and online communities.
Lilian Ezejiegu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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