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After experiencing severe insecurity for several years, including the destruction of lives and properties, life is gradually returning to the South East region of Nigeria.
This positive change is largely due to the non-kinetic measures deployed by the Peace In South East – Project (PISE-P).
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Background
The South East, known as Nigeria’s hub of entrepreneurship and innovation, was once regarded as one of the most peaceful and secure regions. However, in recent years, it has been plagued by various forms of insecurity, including kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, ritual killings, and other violent uprisings. These issues significantly impacted the region’s socio-economic status.
Rise of Insecurity
The insecurity was largely driven by dissident groups claiming to fight for the secession of Igboland and the creation of a sovereign Biafra nation. These groups, often referred to as unknown gunmen, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and the Biafran National Guard, launched a campaign of terror in the region. Their violent enforcement of sit-at-home orders, destruction of properties, and killings disrupted the peace and economy of the South East.
An independent study by Nextier SPD highlighted the extent of this violence, revealing that between 2021 and 2022, non-state armed groups killed 83 civilians and 36 security personnel in the first half of 2022 alone. This violence included a series of high-profile attacks, such as the killing of 31 people in Ebonyi and Anambra states in April 2022 and multiple attacks on the offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Imo State.
Launch of PISE-P
In response to the escalating violence and its detrimental effects, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, launched the Peace In South East – Project (PISE-P) on December 29, 2023, in Bende, Abia State. PISE-P aims to address the root causes of conflict and promote sustainable development through a non-kinetic approach.
Goals and Strategy
PISE-P’s goals include promoting reconciliation, addressing socio-economic disparities, and empowering communities with resources and skills for sustainable development. The initiative unveiled a six-month action plan focused on eight pillars of development: education, agriculture, commerce/industry, infrastructural development, culture and tourism, sports/entertainment, governance/leadership, and reconciliation/rehabilitation/reintegration.
Early Successes
Within five months of its launch, PISE-P has already seen positive outcomes. The project received support from key stakeholders, including political, religious, traditional, and community leaders, as well as security agencies.
One significant early success is the Food for Peace Initiative (FPI), which distributes food items across the region, addressing food security as a foundational step toward peace. Additionally, PISE-P signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) to establish Community Enterprise Digital Hubs, aimed at bridging the digital divide in underserved areas.
Advocacy and Support
PISE-P also focuses on political solutions to ongoing conflicts, including efforts to secure the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. The initiative has garnered praise from various quarters, including the Concerned Igbo Community in the USA and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), which highlighted the economic losses due to insecurity.
Broader Impact
The project has significantly improved security and economic stability in the region. For instance, cities like Owerri in Imo State, once deserted due to violence, are now experiencing a resurgence of economic activity and nightlife. This improvement has been attributed to the unwavering commitment of leaders like Deputy Speaker Kalu and the comprehensive approach of PISE-P.
Conclusion
PISE-P represents a comprehensive, non-kinetic strategy to restore peace and socio-economic stability in the South East region of Nigeria. By addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering sustainable development, the initiative has begun to rebuild the region’s reputation as a peaceful and prosperous hub of entrepreneurship and innovation.
