Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has urged leaders across Africa to address social injustices as a critical pathway to achieving lasting peace and security on the continent.
Speaking at a three-day capacity-building programme organized by the African Union (AU) in collaboration with the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM) in Abuja, the senator highlighted the direct link between systemic injustices and conflicts. She noted that marginalization, exclusion, and deprivation often breed resentment, ultimately fueling instability.
In a statement released by her Chief Press Secretary, Arogbonlo Israel, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized the need for fairness and equality, advocating for the empowerment of marginalized communities and the eradication of systemic injustices to foster peace.
“Most conflicts stem from a sense of injustice—when people feel cheated or deprived of their rights. To prevent conflicts, we must tackle social injustices. It is unrealistic to expect peace from individuals subjected to torture, neglect, or deprivation of basic rights,” she stated.
The senator also called for proactive efforts to promote dialogue and mutual understanding among diverse groups to break down barriers and cultivate harmony. “Building a peaceful society begins with dismantling systems that exclude or oppress. Addressing these issues is the foundation of sustainable peace,” she added.
The Abuja event focused on enhancing women’s roles in conflict prevention, dialogue, and preventive diplomacy. It brought together female parliamentarians and First Ladies from across Africa to strategize on combating violence against women and advancing peacebuilding efforts.
