Gov Diri commends Christian community for supporting peace through prayer in Bayelsa
CHIGOZIE AMADI
The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has acknowledged the vital role played by the Christian community and its leaders in fostering peace in the state through their prayers.
Speaking at his country home in Sampou community, where he hosted leaders and pastors of various Christian denominations on Easter Sunday, Governor Diri emphasized that the prayers of Christians have been instrumental in sustaining peace across Bayelsa.
He expressed gratitude for being surrounded by Christian leaders who speak truth to power, noting that his regular engagement with them inspires him to give his best in serving the state.
The governor also recalled hosting a similar gathering with the Muslim community during the recent Eid-el-Fitr celebration, saying it was only appropriate to meet with the Christian faithful on a day as significant as Easter, which he described as the cornerstone of the Christian faith.
Governor Diri urged the Christian leaders to continue praying for his administration and for the state, assuring them of his unwavering commitment to good governance.
His words: “Today, Easter Sunday, is the foundation of our Christian faith. On behalf of your government and the good people of Bayelsa State, I welcome you and wish you a joyful Easter celebration.
“I had earlier met with Muslim leaders, and it is equally important that I meet with you today. I am honored to have our Christian leaders from across the state gathered here.
“I believe I am truly blessed to have Christian leaders around me who speak the truth and pray for this government. Your prayers and overwhelming support are deeply appreciated, and we will continue to work hard not to disappoint you.”
Earlier, the Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, thanked the governor for hosting the Christian community to an Easter lunch. He commended the governor for his unwavering support of the Christian faith and prayed for God’s continued strength and guidance upon him.
In separate remarks, Bishop Bob Manuel and Mrs. Grace Iyabi praised the governor’s development initiatives, citing ongoing projects such as the new stadium, civil service secretariat, procurement of gas turbines for the state’s independent power supply, the New Yenagoa City, and numerous road projects as evidence of his commitment to the people. They also expressed gratitude for his generosity toward the Christian community.
Also speaking, the State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Fr. Joseph Obelema, assured the governor that the Christian community would continue to pray for the success of his administration and for a fulfilling end to his tenure.
