By Emmanuel Bello
A cross-section of Benin residents has advocated concerted efforts by individuals, organisations and government in the fight against terrorism.
They made the call in Benin City on the occasion of this year’s International Day for Remembrance of and Tributes to Victims of Terrorism.
The International Day for Remembrance of and Tributes to Victims of Terrorism is observed annually on 21st August to honour and support survivors of terrorist acts, and also to uphold their fundamental human rights.
Speaking with Radio Nigeria, a media consultant, Mr. Tony Abolo observed that terrorism is a worldwide phenomenon, occasioned by different factors.
While noting that every single act of terrorism has its explanation, based on location, he expressed the view that terrorism and banditry in Nigeria is due largely to economic challenges and the socio-psychological effect of the lifestyle of politicians.
Mr. Abolo explained that for much successes to be recorded in the fight against terrorism, Nigerians must find a way to address various forms of injustice and disparity in the distribution of resources.
On their parts, a cleric, prophet Stephen Israel and a software engineer, Mr. Abel Obakpolor, urged Nigerians not to limit the concept of terrorism only to the physical use of the weapon of war to attack others.
They called on the government to be more proactive in the fight against terrorism rather than waiting for attacks to occur before taking actions.
Prophet Israel and Mr. Obakpolor also called on spirited individuals, organisations and governments at all levels to reach out to victims of terrorism and their dependants, to help assuage their challenges.
The theme of this year’s observance of the International Day for Remembrance of and Tributes to the Victims of Terrorism is “Healing Through Memory”
