The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd), has appealed to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to help bridge divides and restore peace amid the state’s ongoing crisis.
Speaking at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Ibas highlighted the Church’s role in guiding moral conduct and fostering reconciliation. He extended Easter wishes, emphasizing the season’s message of unity and sacrifice.
Ibas explained that his appointment followed President Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency, with a mandate to restore order and prepare for democratic governance. Since March 20, he has consulted with civil society, traditional leaders, and local officials to rebuild trust.
He urged CAN to preach peace, promote unity, and encourage forgiveness, stating, “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.”
CAN’s state leader, Most Reverend Dr. D.E. Kala-Dukubo, called for the Church’s involvement in peace-building and urged the administration to address misinformation and maintain essential services during the emergency
