NCCE Calls for Vigilance Among Youth to Counter Violent Extremism.

Lawra: Mr John Yibile, the Deputy Upper West Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), has urged the youth to remain vigilant as violent extremists can be identified through their actions and behavior within society. He emphasized the importance of being cautious about their associations and advised promptly reporting any suspicious individuals or actions to security agencies.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Yibile made these remarks during a workshop aimed at identifiable youth groups and associations in the Lawra Municipality. The workshop focused on preventing and containing violent extremism and promoting peace before, during, and after the Election 2024. Organized by the Lawra Municipal Directorate of the NCCE and funded by the European Union (EU), the event is part of the 'Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism (PCVE) action in Ghana' project.Mr Yibile advised the youth to resolve issues through proper channels rather than resorting to coercion or taking the law into their own hands, as such actions could lead to societal chaos.Mr Jesurun Ninge Mornah, the Lawra Municipal Director of NCCE, highlighted the vulnerability of youth to violent extremism due to high unemployment rates and political enthusiasm. He stated that the workshop aimed to deepen the understanding of violent extremism and social cohesion among the youth to combat extremist activities in the municipality and nationwide.Mr Mornah further explained that the engagement sought to enhance the youth's ability to recognize signs of potential radicalization and equip them with crime prevention and peace-building strategies to counter violent extremism. He expressed gratitude to the EU for its support in addressing this global concern.Mr Debpuur Jacob of the Narcotics Control Commission pointed out the influence of narcotics abuse on violent extremist activities and cautioned participants against drug abuse to prevent falling victim to such threats.Additionally, Mr John Bedi, Director of the Commissi on on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), emphasized a multi-faceted approach in preventing violent extremism, involving government, civil society, communities, and individuals. He stressed that addressing socio-economic grievances, poverty, inequality, and unemployment were effective means to curb violent extremism.The youth participants pledged to act as ambassadors and advocates for peace, committing to collaborate with stakeholders in their communities to form peace clubs and campaign against violent extremism.