2025: ABS To Partner With KDI Peace Committee For Peaceful Election Promotion

By Uzo Ugwunze

The Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) has affirmed its commitment to partnering with the Anambra State Peace and Mediation Working Committee, established by the Kinpact Development Initiative (KDI), to promote peace, tolerance, and credible participation in the lead-up to the November 8, 2025, Anambra governorship election.

Managing Director Christopher Molokwu offered this assurance while hosting committee members during a courtesy visit to the station’s corporate headquarters in Awka.

The visit was part of the committee’s statewide advocacy efforts aimed at building synergy with key institutions that influence public opinion and community behaviour.

During the visit, former Vice President of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, praised ABS for its balanced and non-partisan approach to political reporting and programming, calling the station a vital platform for peace communication.

He emphasised that the media’s role in peacebuilding extends beyond simply disseminating news, encompassing the shaping of citizens’ mindsets towards tolerance and constructive participation.

“Anambra is fortunate to have a vibrant media outlet like ABS, and we commend the station for maintaining professionalism and neutrality in its coverage,” Chief Okeke-Ogene stated. “At this critical time, we need to amplify messages of peace and coexistence, regardless of people’s party affiliations or ideological differences.”

He further explained, “The committee’s mission is to prevent electoral violence, strengthen citizens’ trust in the electoral process, and foster an environment where elections can proceed without fear or intimidation.”

Mrs Ugochi Freeman, Secretary of the Committee and KDI State Representative, clarified that the Peace and Mediation Committee was formed to unite credible individuals from civil society, religious organisations, and professional bodies. These individuals will engage stakeholders across the state in conflict prevention and peace education before, during, and after the elections.

She emphasised the strategic nature of the team’s advocacy efforts with media organisations like ABS, given the media’s significant influence in shaping narratives and promoting responsible citizenship.

“We are not waiting for conflict to erupt before responding. Our approach is preventive, utilising dialogue, civic education, and early warning systems to identify and resolve potential tensions,” Mrs Freeman explained. “The media plays a central role in this process, which is why we are here to build a partnership that reaches every community and every voter with the message of peace.”

Professor Jaja Nwanegbo, Director of the Institute for Peace and Security Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and a member of the committee, further emphasised that peacebuilding is a shared responsibility requiring collaboration between security agencies, civil society, and the media.

He highlighted the importance of information sharing, accurate reporting, and issue-based coverage as tools for defusing political tension.

“The media serves as both a mirror and a mediator in society. By amplifying messages that promote dialogue and fairness, you contribute to stability. This is why partnerships like this are crucial for ensuring peaceful elections,” he noted.

In response, ABS Managing Director Molokwu commended the KDI Peace Committee for its proactive and inclusive approach, describing peacebuilding as an essential national duty.

He reaffirmed ABS’s commitment to professionalism and social responsibility in all its programming, adding that the station’s editorial values are rooted in truth, trust, fairness, accuracy, and balance.

“As a public service broadcaster, promoting peace and national cohesion is central to our mission. We will continue to utilise our platforms, including radio, television, and digital channels, to support initiatives that advance peaceful coexistence,” Mr Molokwu stated. “Content creation focused on civic education, tolerance, and responsible participation will be prioritised as the election approaches.”

Mr Molokwu assured the committee of ABS’s full collaboration in all its media-driven activities, including the forthcoming Anambra Peace Summit, which will bring together political candidates, party leaders, security agencies, and civil society groups to commit to peaceful conduct before, during, and after the election.

The visit concluded with a joint resolution to strengthen the partnership between the Peace Committee and ABS through targeted public enlightenment campaigns and interactive programs that encourage peace, unity, and respect for democratic values in the state.