In a significant move to foster stability, a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State has made a passionate appeal for peace directed at the young population of Lamurde Local Government Area. Abdulrahman Haske, the party chieftain, emphasized that sustainable development is impossible without harmony and actively discouraged youths from engaging in or being manipulated into violence.
Youths Hold the Key to Community Transformation
While distributing relief materials to residents impacted by recent unrest in parts of Lamurde, Haske delivered his message. He stated that peacebuilding is not solely a government responsibility but a shared duty requiring the active involvement of young people and community leaders. He highlighted the immense potential of the youth, noting their strength, creativity, and numerical advantage as tools for positive community transformation.
Haske issued a stern warning, pointing out that these very qualities could turn destructive if youths allow themselves to be used by individuals who benefit from chaos and disorder. "Young people must understand that violence only sets communities backward," he cautioned. "Those who instigate unrest often disappear when the consequences arrive, leaving the youth and the wider community to suffer the losses."
Relief Distribution as a Symbol of Solidarity
The distribution of aid items was framed as more than just immediate assistance. Haske explained that the gesture was intended to reassure affected families that they had not been forgotten during a difficult period. He connected the cycle of violence directly to stunted growth, arguing that communities plagued by insecurity struggle to attract investment, infrastructure projects, and essential social services. This environment, he noted, discourages development partners and cripples local economies, ultimately making residents poorer.
He firmly advocated for dialogue and tolerance as the most reliable methods for resolving disagreements. "No meaningful progress can occur in an environment marked by fear and suspicion," Haske asserted, urging residents to consistently seek peaceful channels whenever conflicts arise.
A Call for Collective Responsibility and Mentorship
Extending his appeal beyond the youth, the APC chieftain called on parents, traditional rulers, and community leaders to play stronger roles in guiding the younger generation. He stressed that mentoring and moral instruction are crucial to help youths cultivate patience, respect for others, and a sense of responsibility towards their communities.
Addressing the people of Lamurde directly, Haske called for calm and unity across all wards and settlements. He expressed confidence in the area's significant human and natural potential, which he said could only be fully realized through cooperation and peaceful coexistence. "To the people of Lamurde, let us remain peaceful and united," he said. "Only in an atmosphere of harmony can we build a future of opportunity, development, and shared prosperity for our children."
Residents present at the event praised the intervention, describing it as timely. Many called on political leaders, security agencies, and other community stakeholders to sustain peacebuilding efforts to prevent a return to recent tensions. They expressed hope that continued engagement with youths and consistent support for affected families would help restore confidence and lasting stability across Lamurde Local Government Area.