The administrator of Rivers satate, His Excellency, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd), Tuesday appealed to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rivers state chapter, to play a pivotal role in fostering peace, reconciliation, and stability in the state amid ongoing political and security challenges.
Speaking during an engagement with CAN leaders at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Tuesday, the administrator stated the importance of the church’s moral guidance in restoring harmony.
He extended Easter felicitations, describing the season as a reminder of hope, sacrifice, and unity.
Admiral Ibas acknowledged the recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers state by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, which led to his appointment as administrator.
He outlined his mandate, which includes ensuring peace.
He said 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.
The administrator urged CAN to leverage its influence by preaching peace in congregations and communities,
promoting unity across ethnic, political, and denominational divides, encouraging forgiveness and reconciliation and among citizens, and as well as serving as a beacon of hope amid fear and uncertainly.
“The unity of the church is the seedbed for the unity of the state,” he stated, adding, “Where the church leads in love, the people will follow in peace.”
The administrator assured that his administration remains people-centered, accessible, and committed to justice and equity. He called for collective action, stating 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.
The engagement underscores the administration’s efforts to involve key stakeholders in restoring stability and fostering a peaceful transition in the state.
In their response, the leadership and executive members of the Rivers state chapter of CAN led by the Most Reverend Dr. 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.