River Sole Administrator Seeks CAN’s Support In Restoring Peace, Unity In Rivers
The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), has sought the support of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), in restoring peace and unity to the state.
He said CAN, as the apex religious body made up of respected religious leaders, has a pivotal role to play in fostering peace, reconciliation, and stability in the state amidst the ongoing political crisis in the state.
The Administrator, while speaking during an engagement with CAN leaders at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of the Church’s moral guidance in restoring harmony.
Ibas, who acknowledged the recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, which led to his appointment as Sole Administrator, outlined his mandate, within the initial six months, to include restoring law and order, stabilizing the polity, and paving the way for the return of democratic governance.
He noted 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.
The Administrator urged CAN to “leverage on the influence of the association by preaching peace in congregations and communities, promoting unity across ethnic, political, and denominational divides.”
He also urged them to encourage forgiveness and reconciliation among citizens, beginning from their congregations, and also serve as a beacon of hope amid fear and uncertainty.
“The unity of the Church is the seedbed for the unity of the State,” he stated. “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 inclusive governance, justice, and equity, and called for collective action while emphasizing that sustainable peace requires dialogue, collaboration, and understanding.
He urged the 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.
He remarked that the engagement underscores his 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 Sole Administrator to always involve the group in the peace-building processes.
They urged the Administrator to ensure that critical aspects of governance are not ignored during the period of emergency rule, especially as it affects 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 it is a disincentive for visitor and potential investors.
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