Foundation advocates for world-class democratic dialogue

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

The Olu Pessu Philanthropic Foundation, a non-political body, is mobilising for a world-class democratic dialogue on good governance.

The Chairman of the Foundation, Mr Olu Pessu disclosed this in a statement availed to our correspondent on Wednesday in Warri, Delta State.

According to the convener, the maiden annual conference would bring together political heads, leaders and activists adding that it would be a regional meeting.

Pessu, a political activist from the Awolowo school of thought said that the invited leaders would interface with the young Africans in a constructive forward-looking dialogue to impact positively democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

The communications guru added that the conference would also deliberate on how to ensure that the government abides by their democratically agreed promises and sterned corruption.

Pessu noted that poverty and corruption go beyond the lack of income and productive resources to ensure a sustainable livelihood.

According to the member of the Afenifere group, the manifestations of poverty included: hunger and malnutrition, limited access to education and healthcare

Others, he said include bad governance, human rights abuses and a lack of citizens’ participation in the decision-making process.

“Olu Pessu Philanthropic Foundation also known as Olu Pessu Philanthropies prime mission is to raise awareness and transformations to tackle social problems like poverty and corruption that are widespread in Nigeria and Africa.

“With many people living below the poverty line and struggling to meet their basic needs.

“Corruption is a major social problem with many government officials and some individuals engaging in corrupt practices that hinder development and progress,” he said.

Pessu is the son of a former Jurist and an Action Group activist during the colonial era and a second Republic lawmaker representing Warri South Constituency under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN).