…urges politicians to rise above self-interest at thanksgiving
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ibas, has appealed to the people of Rivers State shun bitterness, political rivalry, and self-interest to forge a united path toward peace and sustainable development.
The Sole administrator made the call today during an Inter-Denominational Thanksgiving Service held at the Ecumenical Centre in Port Harcourt. The service was part of events marking the state’s transition back to democratic governance following the recent peaceful local government elections.
Reflecting on the last six months, Ibas stated that his administration “deliberately sowed seeds of love and peace,” which now require the collective nurturing of all Rivers people to flourish. He recounted the profound challenges the state faced, noting that it was “torn by divisions, instability, and broken trust” before the intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“By God’s grace, and with the support of Mr. President and all of you, we have walked through those difficult days together,” Ibas stated. “The survival and relative stability we enjoy today is a testimony of God’s faithfulness.”
The Administrator urged political actors to “shed their swords,” declaring that no political victory or personal gain is worth the blood of any Rivers citizen. He emphatically stated that “the progress and prosperity of Rivers State must be placed above personal or partisan interest,” and that “politics must never be an excuse to destroy the very state we are called to serve.”
Speaking further, Ibas said, “Let us submit, let us reconcile, let me us heal for where there is peace, there is progress. Where there is love, there is prosperity.”
In a message to the youths, Ibas urged them not to be used as instruments of violence but to instead channel their energies into building a peaceful and prosperous state. He called on community leaders, elders, and religious figures to continue providing guidance, wisdom, and prayers for the continued stability of Rivers State.
“On this Thanksgiving Day, I thank God Almighty for His mercy. I thank Mr. President for his leadership and unwavering support. I thank every Rivers man and woman for their patience, support, and understanding through the last six months.”
The Chaplain of the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Government House, Pastor Barasin Ogan, who delivered the sermon titled, “Grateful Heart,” called for unity, urging citizens to let go of the past and work together to build a better Rivers State.
The service featured scripture readings by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, and special prayers were offered for the Administrator, his team, and the continued peace and prosperity of Rivers State.
