Why violent crimes are rising in Nigeria, by RAPSON

Odohofre, who spoke at a press briefing yesterday in Abuja, disclosed that the group would organise a Community Violence Prevention and Human Security conference on September 27, to address the issue.He expressed concern at the rising crime waves in the country, despite efforts by government, NGOs, community leaders and the clergy to stem the tide of insecurity.

The problem, RAPSON noted, has created a general feeling of insecurity, fear and suspicion among the people. Odohofre said the objective of the forthcoming conference is to explore the core violence prevention strategies.He said it would also look at the many complex questions on how community violence preventive measures can reduce crime and allow socio-economic and political advancements.He said the planned conference would also identify opportunities and challenges for the management of community violence, and address real developments that could be brought to the rural areas.

The conference will examine bringing safety and security professionals and other relevant stakeholders together to solve the problem.He added that action plan on violent prevention that will guide, and, or direct intervention in times of violent conflicts would be formulated at the conference.“As you are aware, safety is an indispensable condition for growth, development and stability of any society. However, due to terrorist acts, local wars, natural disasters, epidemic pandemic, security has been greatly challenged in Nigeria, resulting into large-scale destruction of lives and property,” he said.

Odohofre explained that the conference would formulate a blueprint for education and enlightenment of local government officials, community leaders, and the political class.According to him, it would focus on the latest methods and tactics of providing safety and violence prevention mechanism to protect them, their constituents and the public.

The RAPSON boss disclosed that the conference would also provide essential information on how to protect people during conflicts and post conflict situations. Also included are ways of defending displaced persons, as well as overcoming economic insecurities that force people into crimes.