All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the April election in Rivers State, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, has called on world leaders to work for global peace, progress and human dignity.

In his message to mark World Refugee Day, the former Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream, said the world can be better if those in leadership positions work for peace, justice and development.

According to him, refugees are not from outer space. They are like other human beings but they are special because of their peculiar realities. So they need the understanding of every member of the society.

Peterside said: “Those who are displaced by war, natural disaster, drought or famine are part and parcel of our common world. They are definitely not from outer space. So we must all appreciate the fact that anybody could be a refugee. If they had a choice, definitely they would have chosen a more dignifying life.

“Therefore on a day like this, it is important we remember these less privileged members of our world. But as citizens, we must also demand good governance because the actions of our leaders can either bring about peace and prosperity or conditions that lead to social dislocation.

“Today, the world is troubled with challenges largely on account of the decisions of leaders. Without any doubt, injustice and oppression, particularly of minorities are also aggravating conflict and social strife across the globe.

“Therefore to have a world of our dream, we must all work to eliminate injustice, oppression, impunity, discrimination and everything that diminishes our common humanity.

“Today in Nigeria, we all appreciate the fact that we have more than a fair share of refugees due to the activities of Boko Haram in the North East. We are also witnesses to the suffering, particularly of women and children in that part of our country.

“As we strive to regain our lost territories and dignities, I urge our country men and women to show more love to Internally Displaced Persons where ever they are found. That is the least we can do at this critical time in our march to nationhood.

“And as we hope and pray for a peaceful and free world, it is also imperative we remember victims of injustice and oppression who are daily denied their rights to freedom and fair-hearing. Healing will certainly not take place in an unjust and oppressive world.”

•Photo shows Dakuku Peterside.

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