Nkechi Uzoegwu, founder, Yeti Youth Empowerment Foundation, an NGO, has appealed to residents of Mushin, Idi-Oro and neighbouring communities to embrace peace ahead of the July 12 chairmanship election.

Mrs Uzoegwu made the appeal at a press conference held in Mushin, on Sunday.

She expressed deep concern over the recurring violent clashes between youths from Mushin and Idi-Oro, describing it as both frightening and disheartening.

“Several lives have been lost due to these indiscriminate community clashes.

“Recently, a violent conflict between Mushin and Idi-Oro youths claimed the lives of over six promising young individuals, including teenagers, which is discouraging,” she said.

Mrs Uzoegwu said that the situation demands urgent intervention from relevant authorities to prevent further loss of lives and ensure a peaceful electoral process across Lagos metropolis.

She, therefore, called on the local government chairmen of both communities, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Lagos State commissioner of police and President Bola Tinubu, to urgently intervene and “address the disturbing pattern of violence.”

Mrs Uzoegwu said that proactive steps such as peace sensitisation, security reinforcement, and youth engagement initiatives were critical to averting potential bloodshed during the election.

She further urged traditional rulers, religious leaders and community-based organisations to work collaboratively in fostering mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence, “especially during this sensitive electoral period.”

Efforts to reach the Zone ‘D’ Area Command, Divisional Police Headquarters at Mushin to confirm the death incident proved abortive.

(NAN)