The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) has appealed to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), to play a pivotal role in fostering peace, reconciliation, and stability in the state amid ongoing political crisis.
Ibas made the call during a meeting with CAN leaders at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The Administrator emphasised the importance of the Church’s moral guidance in restoring harmony, and described the Easter season as a reminder of hope, sacrifice, and unity.
Ibas acknowledged the recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, which he said led to his appointment as Administrator.
He explained that since assuming office on March 20, 2025, he has engaged in broad consultations with civil society, traditional rulers, and local government officials to rebuild trust and foster cooperation.
According to the sole administrator, “The unity of the Church is the seedbed for the unity of the State. Where the Church leads in love, the people will follow in peace.”
The Administrator assured that his administration remains people-centred, accessible, and committed to justice and equity.
He called for collective action, emphasising that sustainable peace requires dialogue, collaboration, and understanding.
The Administrator urged religious leaders to remain steadfast in prayer and bold in truth, drawing inspiration from the Easter message.
He expressed confidence that, with CAN’s support and divine guidance, Rivers State would emerge stronger and more united.
In their response, the leadership and executive members of the Rivers State chapter of CAN led by the Most Reverend D.E Kala-Dukubo appealed to the Administrator to involve the group in the peace building process.
They urged the Administrator to ensure that critical aspects of governance are not ignored during the period of emergency rule, especially as it affects the environmental sanitation.
CAN also decried the volume of misinformation in the publication space and urged the administration to tackle it headlong, adding that the development portrayed the state as a place at war, adding that this is a disincentive for visitors and potential investors.
Blessing Ibunge
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