The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has assured that effective peace-building initiatives are crucial to maintaining social cohesion and preventing conflicts, particularly in light of ongoing land disputes between the Oyo and Afijio communities.
The monarch’s remarks came in response to calls from concerned Oyo indigenes urging him to intervene in the longstanding land disagreements between the two communities.
Oba Owoade emphasised that in today’s interconnected world, the importance of fostering peace and harmony within communities cannot be overstated.
He acknowledged that the diversity of cultures, beliefs, and values coexisting in the region necessitates continuous peace-building efforts, which, he stressed, go beyond mere conflict resolution.
He questioned why two neighboring communities, which have coexisted within the same metropolis for decades, would engage in disputes over land, rather than collaborating for the common good.
In a statement issued by the Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch said, “Peace-building is a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of discord and fosters a culture of trust and collaboration. It involves engaging individuals and groups at all levels to create sustainable peace through dialogue, education, and empowerment.”
“Why must interwoven communities that had been in existence for decades and within the same metropolis, Oyo, be at daggers drawn with themselves over land matters, rather than working harmoniously for common goals?
“We must remember that a house divided against itself cannot stand, just as in unity lies the strength. United and harmonious we stand, but divided we fall. There must be a ceasefire, as enough is enough. We can’t continue to shed our blood and live in perpetual acrimony. There must be a lasting peace”.
Oba Owoade hinted that he would meet with critical stakeholders and opinion leaders on the matter, after which he would embark on education and awareness programmes that promote understanding, and create safe spaces for open dialogue and reconciliations among communities concerned.
These components, he added, are instrumental in laying the groundwork for lasting peace and which can significantly contribute to community harmony.
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The monarch added that, “Open and honest communication is essential for building trust and understanding among concerned community members.
“By creating platforms for dialogue, individuals can express their views and collaborate on solutions that benefit the entire metropolis.
“Let there be peace in every community. With God our creator, we are family. Let us walk with each other in perfect harmony. I urge everyone to let peace begin from his or her doorstep. Let this be the moment now. With every step we take, let this be our solemn vow.”