Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The Administrator of Rivers State, His Excellency Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has appealed to the people of the state to set aside bitterness, political rivalry, and self-interest in order to build lasting peace and sustainable development.
He made the call on Sunday during an Inter-Denominational Church Thanksgiving Service at the Ecumenical Centre, Port Harcourt, held to mark the state’s transition back to democratic governance after the recently concluded local government elections.
Reflecting on his six-month stewardship, Ibas said his administration had “deliberately sowed seeds of love and peace,” which now require collective nurturing. He recounted how Rivers State had been “torn by divisions, instability, and broken trust” before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention.
“By God’s grace, and with the support of Mr. President and all of you, we have walked through those difficult days together,” he said. “The survival and relative stability we enjoy today is a testimony of God’s faithfulness.”
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In a stern message to political actors, Ibas urged the class to “shed their swords,” stressing that no political ambition or personal gain is worth the blood of any Rivers citizen. “The progress and prosperity of Rivers State must be placed above personal or partisan interest,” he warned.
Turning to the youth, the Administrator advised them not to be used as tools of violence but to channel their energy into productive ventures that would build a peaceful and prosperous state. He also called on elders, community leaders, and religious figures to continue guiding the state with wisdom and prayers.
Attributing the modest achievements of his government to a “triumvirate of support,” Ibas expressed gratitude to God, President Tinubu, and the people of Rivers State for their patience and cooperation over the last six months.
The Thanksgiving Service featured scripture readings by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, and a sermon by Pastor Barasin Ogan, Chaplain of the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Government House. Preaching on the theme “Grateful Heart”, Pastor Ogan echoed the Administrator’s call for unity and urged Rivers people to let go of the past and work together for the future.
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Special prayers were also offered for the Administrator, his team, and the peace and prosperity of Rivers State.
