ON DIALOGUE: ECOWAS Advances, Asks Protestors' to Heed tinubu's Proposal for a Peaceful Resolution

Protest against economic hardship in Ojota, Lagos

Never has dialogue and non-violent resolution been more necessary than in this age of rage-bubbles. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also said on Tuesday it had asked the protesters to attend peaceful talks called by prominent leader Bola Tinubu. The cry for Peaceful Discourse is timely, this book has excellent and relevant advice on creating a positive dialogue in the face of tough circumstances.


The tens of thousands attending meetings, joining protests or losing sleep at night have been talking about their political vision on these issues since the events began to unfold across Latin America. At such crossroads, dialogue becomes a beacon in the darkness of uncertainty and lights up a way forward for all stakeholders providing an avenue for mutual understanding leading to sustainable results. As a regional institution that is committed to peaceful cooperation to ensure stability, the ECOWAS stresses the importance of dialogue as an instrument for addressing grievances and increasingly fostering inclusivity.


One of the most dramatic is Bola Tinubu, known for flexing his political muscle as much or more than promoting peace and unity furthers this point by echoing that Nigerians need to come together constructively when there are disagreements. His is a call for dialogue, a way of saying that even in disagreement there is the possibility to find agreement and then move ahead together towards progress.


We must respect the viewpoints and worries that drive protests and demonstrations to make change, not only listen but understand these serious ongoing problems that cause people to speak out. By using dialogue as a strategy of engagement, stakeholders can create an environment for radicalization avoidance where grievances are aired, solutions brainstormed and relationships are built on respect.


While negotiating these difficult times it is important to focus on the values of tolerance, empathy and dialogue. This is consistent with ECOWAS' strive to promote dialogue, inclusivity and collaboration among member states to build a culture of understanding and unity within the region.


In conclusion, the invitation for dialogue by ECOWAS and Bola Tinubu carries an important message that must not only be flouted as they bounce off in this period of political dissent. This gesture of reconciliation through conversation offers humanity a glimpse into the type of peaceful future that all deserve. Let us learn from this wake-up call, start listening to alternative viewpoints and collaborate in the effort to construct more inclusive societies which are able (I certainly hope better so than ours) to withstand viruses of all kinds.


Find the latest discussions and share your thoughts about how dialogue can shift protests from violent to peaceful results.

Source: The Cable