IPCR Urges Nigerians To Embrace Tolerance To Combat Rising Intolerance

Abuja, Nigeria – The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has issued a strong call for Nigerians to cultivate tolerance, highlighting its crucial role in addressing the nation’s escalating challenges of racism, xenophobia, and ethno-religious violence.

Speaking at the 2024 International Day for Tolerance, organized by UNESCO at the UN House in Abuja, IPCR Director General Dr. Joseph Ochogwu emphasised that intolerance is the root cause of these societal ills.

Ochogwu stressed that Nigeria’s rich diversity has been undermined by a lack of acceptance and appreciation for different cultures, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds.

This, he argued, has hindered the nation’s progress towards lasting peace and stability.

He further criticised the role of corrupt politicians in fostering social exclusion, inequality, and discrimination, leading to increased conflict and violence.

The IPCR DG also expressed concern over the increasing involvement of youth and minors in violent extremism, fuelled by intolerance and discrimination.

He cited examples such as forced child marriages, particularly in Northern Nigeria, leading to severe mental and physical health consequences for young women.

He also highlighted the detrimental impact of hate speech and misinformation spread through social media, exacerbating tensions and undermining national unity.

Ochogwu warned that the persistence of such intolerance threatens the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Ochogwu outlined several key objectives for the International Day for Tolerance commemoration, including improving youth understanding of cultural diversity, enhancing media literacy to combat online hate speech and misinformation, and promoting non-violent behavior and global citizenship.

Abdourahamane Diallo, Head of the Abuja Office and UNESCO Representative to Nigeria, echoed these concerns, acknowledging the various forms of discrimination prevalent in Nigeria, often rooted in religious, ethnic, and political differences.

He emphasised UNESCO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in building a more tolerant society, providing young people with the skills and knowledge to navigate diversity and combat online hate.

Diallo highlighted that UNESCO is working with partners to replicate successful global tolerance initiatives, adapting them to Nigeria’s specific context to equip young Nigerians with the tools to become agents of change.

The focus, he said, is on fostering better intercultural understanding and equipping young people to challenge online hate and misinformation.