Ex–Akwa Ibom Governor Seeks Reconciliation, Prayers For Successor

The immediate past governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, in the spirit of love that usually accompanies the season of Christmas, has underscored the importance of genuine reconciliation for greater harmony, unity and peace for sustainable development of the state.

He noted that Christmas remains a time to celebrate the mercy of God in saving mankind through the birth of Jesus Christ.

Speaking at this year’s Christmas Service at the United Evangelical Church (UEC) at his hometown, Awa Iman, in Onna local government area, Mr Emmanuel recalled that “it is a tradition held to celebrate Emmanuel – God with us.

“There’s a star for a king in every family, and that’s why the wisemen could identify the star of Jesus Christ among other stars. This is a period of prophecy, and so, may your star shine in your family.”

In line with biblical injunctions, he called for continuous prayers for his successor, Governor Umo Eno, and other leaders for sustainable peace, which he acknowledged was the major driving force engendering growth and development under the watch of the present administration.

He urged everyone to be his brother’s keeper, loving genuinely and caring for one another.

Besides, the former governor noted with gratitude the good work of his Council Chairman, Hon. Kufre Umoren and encouraged all to submit to constituted authorities, while wishing all a merry Christmas.

In a sermon at the service on the theme, “Lessons Behind the Season,” the resident pastor of the UEC, Awa Iman, Ikot Idem Udo Superintendency, Rev Titus Akpan, exhorted the congregants on the need to emulate the humility of Jesus Christ as seen from his birth to ministry life.

“The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light, and they who were in the shadow of death have the light of life. This is a major lesson behind the season, having Jesus Christ as the light of the world.

“Again, out of Judea, the least among the provinces, shall come a Governor that shall rule my people, which implies that most great people would always come from very humble backgrounds.

“Yet another lesson is evident in the inability of King Herod to stop the rising of the Baby King, Jesus Christ illustrating the tendency of powers to rise against God’s plans, and the certainty that the will of God will always prevail.”

Prayers over the sermon was led by the former first lady, Dr Martha Udom Emmanuel, while the Bible readings drawn from Isaiah Chapter 9, verses 1 through 7 and Matthew Chapter 2, verses 1 through 15, were taken by Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel.