CSO cautions Bauchi youths, women against violence

A Civil Society Organisation, Victus Impact Network, has partnered with youths and women to promote peacebuilding efforts in the Yelwan Kusu community on the outskirts of Bauchi town.

The Executive Director of the organisation, Rex Ojochegbe, disclosed this on Saturday during an interfaith dialogue and community theatre organised to address recurrent crises in the area.

Ojochegbe explained that the initiative, supported by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund, was aimed at fostering unity and shared responsibility among residents.

He said, “With shared responsibility toward building lasting peace, I believe that the peace the community deeply desires is achievable and will come to fruition.

We work closely with youths and women because they are key to ending violence and building lasting peace. The PAX Project is here to intentionally influence peace, especially considering what has happened in Yelwan Kusu—we want to see the narrative change.”

He added that the organisation remained committed to promoting inclusive and peaceful communities through targeted interventions.

Also speaking, the Amira of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Association in Nigeria in Bauchi State, Habiba Sa’ad, commended the initiative, noting that women bear the greatest burden during conflicts.

When it comes to the issue of peace, there is no one more affected than women—their children and their concerns for the community,” she said.

Habiba recalled that communities once coexisted peacefully without divisions and praised the efforts of youths in rekindling unity.

“I want to see young people equipped with skills and independent abilities to help grow the community. I am proud of this initiative by these young minds, and I hope they will continue to do more,” she added.

In his remarks, a representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Kefas Danjuma, while stressing the importance of peaceful coexistence, described peace as a driver of development and prosperity.

“Peace is a beautiful thing that brings about prosperity in every community. I have lived in this community alongside Muslims, even extending support where I can.

“In Christianity, everyone around you is your neighbour, and that is a belief I strongly hold,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the renewed peace efforts in the community would be sustained.

On his part, the Divisional Police Officer in the area, Yahaya Yunusa, lauded the initiative, noting the positive role youths are beginning to play in conflict resolution.

He said, “In time past, youths were pioneers of crisis, but the narrative is changing, and young people are now using their knowledge to foster peace. These youths who have brought this initiative deserve commendation and encouragement.”

Yunusa encouraged residents to embrace peaceful coexistence, condemned all forms of gender-based violence, and urged couples to prioritise dialogue over violence in resolving disputes.