Bayelsa governor urges Christian unity, calls for truth to power

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has called for greater unity within the Christian community, stating that it is essential for fulfilling its divine purpose in the state and the nation. Speaking at the inauguration of the new State Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Yenagoa, Diri, represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, emphasized that unity is a source of strength.

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There is much strength in unity. As long as the body of Christ is united, there is nothing we cannot achieve. The devil knows this, and that is why he fights the unity of the Church to make it impossible for the Church to achieve its purpose.

However, the governor lamented the current lack of unity within the body of Christ, attributing it to excessive bickering, greed, and personal ambition. He stressed that true unity requires sacrifice, love, and acceptance of one another, irrespective of denominational differences, to ensure the Church continues to impact society positively.

Diri also highlighted the importance of the Church speaking truth to power. He insisted that the pulpit must preach the "real gospel" and boldly address leaders without fear. "There is much strength in unity," he stated, adding that "the devil knows this, and that is why he fights the unity of the Church." He also noted that the "noise in our politics has practically overflowed into the Church."

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Unity comes with a sacrifice. Somebody must let go for unity to stand. There is too much bickering in the Church, and the noise in our politics has practically overflowed into the Church.

While congratulating the outgoing and newly inaugurated leadership of CAN Bayelsa, Governor Diri expressed confidence in the new executive council's ability to foster stronger relationships within the Christian community. The CAN South-South Vice Chairman, Rev. Father Victor Ofili, who inaugurated the new council, commended the chapter for its existing unity and financial contributions. He also appealed to the state government to continue its support for CAN.

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The tenets we propagate in society as a Church are vital to its perception. Therefore, preach the real gospel to the people around you. Take a non-partisan approach to boldly tell leaders the truth