IPCR Director-General Urges Grassroots Early Warning Systems to Avert Conflicts

 

By Isah Aliyu Chiroma

Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), has emphasised the urgent need to strengthen grassroots early warning systems to prevent violent conflicts across Nigeria.

Dr. Ochogwu spoke during an advocacy visit to Kaduna, under the National Conflict Early Warning and Response initiative, a partnership between the IPCR, Tetra Tech, SPRiNG, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). He described the IPCR as a leading research institution dedicated to preventing and managing conflicts in Nigeria and across Africa.

He highlighted the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s National Conflict Early Warning and Response System. During the event, stakeholders from various levels were trained to identify and report potential threats. Participants gained practical skills to recognise early warning signs and effectively manage conflicts.

The project is active in Benue, Katsina, Kaduna, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory. Dr. Ochogwu and his team’s visit to Kaduna was part of broader efforts to strengthen the National Conflict Early Warning and Response Systems in these regions.

He added that the system is climate-sensitive, recognising how environmental pressures affect social tensions. Participants learn to integrate gender, social inclusion, and protection of vulnerable groups, who are most affected by conflict.

The visit aims to build trust between citizens and the government. Mutual trust is vital for peace and development, he said. The institute works with media, civil society, traditional institutions, security agencies, faith groups, and community leaders to maintain peace.

Several government agencies, including the Correctional Service, Immigration, Police, and National Orientation Agency, are involved. Faith-based organisations, youth, women’s groups, and civil society actors also actively participated in the training.

On average, 60 participants joined each session, with approximately 180 people trained so far. Dedicated desk officers have been established in agencies to serve as early warning responders. Dr. Ochogwu expressed satisfaction with the level of stakeholder cooperation.

The project aims to activate and strengthen early warning and response systems, enabling communities to detect and report violence before it escalates. Dr. Ochogwu emphasised that IPCR’s approach prioritises proactive prevention rather than reaction. While acknowledging the complexity of insecurity, he stressed the need for innovative, knowledge-based solutions.

Dr. Ochogwu clarified that IPCR is not a security agency but focuses on building capacity and strengthening traditional institutions, which play key roles in peacekeeping. He highlighted the importance of local governments as the closest link to citizens. Strengthening grassroots institutions can help prevent manipulation and violence.

Political actors are being integrated into the early warning system, which now tracks indicators for electoral violence. This mechanism equips stakeholders to spot triggers before, during, and after elections. The institute also addresses misinformation and disinformation by training stakeholders to counter false narratives that can incite violence. Additionally, the IPCR collaborates with media and relevant agencies to promote responsible communication.

He emphasised that while free speech is essential, it should not be used to incite violence. Addressing concerns about selective justice, Dr. Ochogwu affirmed that Nigeria adheres to the rule of law and due process. Institutions such as the EFCC, ICPC, and Code of Conduct Bureau are responsible for investigating and prosecuting offences. He acknowledged that the justice system can be slow but maintained that it strives to ensure fairness for all.

States were selected due to the frequency and complexity of local conflicts. North Central states face farmer–herder clashes and identity disputes, while the Northwest struggles with banditry and communal tensions. Dr. Ochogwu said IPCR’s reach extends beyond these states to other regions. The institute also conducts peacebuilding in the Niger Delta and the North East.

He urged state governments to support and invest in conflict prevention. With more support, more participants could be trained across local governments. Expanding training would help transform communities through knowledge.

Dr. Ochogwu concluded that peacebuilding needs collaboration between citizens and the government. He urged Nigerians to support their communities, strengthen trust, and encourage responsible engagement to build a peaceful society.