South-East Group Urges FG to Shift From Military Force to Dialogue on Insecurity

The Federal Government has been urged to place greater emphasis on dialogue, community engagement and other non-kinetic measures in tackling insecurity in the South-East, rather than relying mainly on military operations.

The call was made by Ikechukwu Nwanabueze, Executive Director of the Orlu Progressive Initiative (OPI), during a media chat in Owerri, Imo State, to mark the 2026 International Day of Peace. The day’s theme was “Peace Begins With Us.”

Nwanabueze said lasting peace requires more than security operations, arguing that communities must be involved in resolving conflicts and addressing the conditions that allow violence to persist.

“For us at the Orlu Progressive Initiative, peace is not just a word or an annual celebration. Peace is a responsibility that belongs to all of us.”

He called for stronger collaboration between government and NGOs, youth leaders, traditional rulers, religious organisations and civil society groups, while commending the existing Homeland Security efforts in the state.

“Government must approach peace building rather than the usual peacekeeping. Using a kinetic approach shouldn’t be the only option,” he said.

Nwanabueze also called for a broader approach to security that gives greater attention to dialogue, tolerance and community participation. He argued that peace should involve creating communities where residents feel safe, young people have opportunities and disagreements can be resolved without violence.

His comments come as preparations continue for the 2027 general elections. Nwanabueze said OPI would host the South-East Peace and Stability Summit 2026 in Owerri on September 23, bringing stakeholders together to discuss peace, security, social cohesion, development and peaceful elections. OPI has separately confirmed the summit’s September 23 date.

The initiative has previously called on political parties, candidates, youths, traditional institutions and religious bodies to promote peaceful political participation ahead of 2027, while urging security agencies and electoral authorities to remain neutral and professional.

Nwanabueze urged residents to reject hate speech, misinformation, drug abuse and other divisive conduct. He said disagreements should be handled through dialogue rather than violence, stressing that sustained insecurity and division can undermine development.