Ibas Urges CAN to Support Peace Efforts in Rivers State

The Administrator of Rivers State, retired Vice-Admiral Ibok Ibas, has called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rivers State Chapter, to actively support the ongoing peace and reconciliation process across the state.

Ibas made the appeal during an engagement with CAN leaders at the Government House, Port Harcourt, according to a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo.

He emphasized the importance of the Church’s moral guidance in fostering harmony and unity, describing the Easter season as a symbol of hope, sacrifice, and renewal. Ibas noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State, which led to his appointment to restore order and prepare the ground for democratic governance.

“Since assuming office on March 20, I have consulted widely with civil society, traditional rulers, and local officials to rebuild trust and cooperation,” Ibas said.

He urged CAN to preach peace in their congregations and promote forgiveness and unity across political, ethnic, and denominational lines. “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,” he added.

The retired naval chief assured CAN of his administration’s commitment to justice, equity, and inclusive governance, calling for collective action through dialogue, collaboration, and understanding.

In response, the Rivers State CAN Chairman, Most Reverend Dr. D.E. Kala-Dukubo, pledged the association’s support for peace-building efforts. He urged the administrator to include CAN in the process and ensure governance does not lag under emergency rule, particularly in the area of environmental sanitation.

CAN also raised concerns about widespread misinformation, warning that the current narratives could portray Rivers as a conflict zone. The group urged the administration to take steps to correct public misconceptions.