The Lagos State Government has marked the International Day of Peace with calls for global peace and cessation of hostilities among warring groups, urging them to down their weapons and embrace the principles of peaceful coexistence.
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, who was represented at this year's celebrations of the United Nations International Day of Peace by the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Funlola Odunlami disclosed that the State had established the Citizens Mediation Centre (CMC) to initiate peace through mediation and provide access to justice to the indigents of the state.
Ambode maintained that the non-adversarial resolution of disputes by CMC has assisted in maintaining relationships among disputing parties and prevents the citizenry from resorting to jungle justice or other forms of impunities, stressing that residents must further embrace the process of mediation as it has become globally acceptable.'
In delivering the speech of the Secretary General of the UN, Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, the Director of the United Nations Information Centre, Mr. Ronald Kyanga explained that at a time of deadly violence and destabilizing conflicts around the world, the option of peace is a collective responsibility to put an end to brutality and impunity.
Ban Ki-Moon therefore pleaded with all warring nations to lay down their weapons and observe a global ceasefire to create a space for lasting peace.
While noting that the youths are mostly affected by hostilities, the UN Scribe urged all governments to make greater investments in realizing the potential and massive contributions of the world's young peace builders by saving generations from the scourge of war.
The highlight of the 2015 International Day of Peace themed, “Partnership for Peace - Dignity for All”, was the Walk for Peace and Free Legal Clinic organized by the Citizens Mediation Centre (CMC) at Ikeja and Badagry simultaneously.
In another development. the state's Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has appointed Mr. Olufolarin Ogunsanwo as the new Chairman, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS).
Ogunsanwo’s appointment was confirmed by the Lagos State House of Assembly on Tuesday, on the request of the Governor. Ambode had earlier approved the appointment of new Directors to the Board of LIRS.
The new directors include Mrs. Akintola Bolaji, Moroof Oludare Tijani, Mrs. Arinola Kola-Daisi, Seyi Alade, Mrs. Afolayan Folashade and Ayodele Adebayo with Jimi Aina serving as Board Secretary.
The new officers are expected to resume work immediately and work towards implementing the vision of the state government.
