Stakeholders in Gombe State have tasked the state government and parents with addressing the menace of ‘Kalare’ thugs in the state to improve peaceful living.
The permanent secretary of the state Ministry of Women Affairs, Sa’adatu Ishaya, made this charge during a commemoration of International Peace Day in the state organised by the Women Peace and Security (WPS) Media Network, supported by UN Women.
She said the youth indulge in ‘Kalare’ in the state due to idleness and lack of jobs, adding that the government can play a role in tackling the menace by providing them with jobs while tasking parents with moral training and upbringing of children.
The permanent secretary, however, noted that apart from the youth redundancy and thuggery, Gombe State does not experience security threats like what is obtainable elsewhere.
Earlier, the deputy coordinator of the network in the state, Comfort Mukollo, explained that International Peace Day, observed annually on September 21, is a global celebration of peace, unity, and cooperation with roots in the United Nations’ efforts to promote peace and ceasefires worldwide.
She said, “This year’s theme, ‘Building Lasting Peace Through Dialogue and Cooperation,’ highlights the need for inclusive dialogue and collaborative efforts in resolving conflicts and promoting sustainable peace.”
She called for collective action to address pressing global issues such as climate change, inequality, and social injustice that threaten global peace and security.
Mukollo also urged governments, civil society, and individuals to advocate policies promoting peace, justice, and human rights, support peacebuilding initiatives, and engage in respectful dialogue.
