The engagement focused on early detection of potential conflicts, community dialogue and the use of peaceful approaches to resolving disputes, particularly those relating to land, chieftaincy and other local governance issues.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to promote peace, strengthen social cohesion and prevent disagreements from escalating into violence in communities across the Oti Region.

Assembly Members, as representatives of their respective electoral areas, play an important role in identifying emerging tensions and facilitating communication between residents, traditional authorities and local government officials.

Through the sensitisation programme, participants were encouraged to remain alert to early warning signs of conflict and report concerns promptly to the appropriate authorities for intervention.

The engagement also highlighted the importance of dialogue and mediation in addressing disagreements. Community leaders and local representatives can help resolve disputes by bringing conflicting parties together, encouraging mutual understanding and promoting solutions that respect the interests of all parties.

Land ownership disputes and chieftaincy disagreements remain issues that require careful handling, consultation and respect for established legal and traditional processes. The Peace Council's engagement therefore sought to encourage Assembly Members to approach such matters with impartiality and a commitment to peaceful resolution.

The programme further underscored the need for cooperation among local government authorities, traditional leaders, security agencies, religious organisations and community members in maintaining peace and stability.

Effective collaboration among these stakeholders can help address grievances before they develop into serious disputes and create an environment in which residents can pursue their social and economic activities without fear of conflict.

The sensitisation exercise is expected to equip Assembly Members with a stronger understanding of their responsibilities in peacebuilding and encourage them to promote tolerance, dialogue and peaceful coexistence within their electoral areas.