Dickson Akoh

Dickson Ameh Ojonye Akoh (born 10 July 1973) is a Nigerian youth leader and founder of the Peace Corps of Nigeria. He was born in Obalende, Lagos State, and is of Idoma origin from Benue State.

Early life and education

Akoh was born on 10 July 1973 in Obalende, Lagos State, to the family of Ameh Akoh and Helen Ojonye. Although born in Lagos, he is of Idoma origin from Benue State, where he spent part of his early life and participated in youth organisations including the Boys Scout Movement and the Red Cross in Otukpo.

Career

Akoh founded the Peace Corps of Nigeria, a voluntary organisation focused on youth empowerment, civic responsibility and peacebuilding. Under his leadership, the organisation expanded its activities across Nigeria and advocated legislation to establish it as a statutory national institution.

He has also served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Youth Council of Nigeria.

2017 arrest

On 28 February 2017, officers of the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army arrested Akoh and dozens of members of the Peace Corps of Nigeria during the commissioning of the organisation's national headquarters in Abuja. Authorities alleged that the organisation operated illegally, while the Peace Corps denied wrongdoing.

The arrest generated national debate. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana criticised the operation and questioned the legality of the detention.

Campaign for legal recognition

Akoh has consistently advocated for legislation establishing the Peace Corps of Nigeria as a statutory organisation. Bills seeking presidential assent have generated public debate and have been reported extensively by Nigerian newspapers.