Nigeria @66: Gov. Otu Preaches Unity At Thanksgiving Service

Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has charged Nigerians to deepen unity in diversity, notwithstanding the ethno-religious, linguistic and cultural differences that exist.

Otu gave the charge while speaking at the Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service held on Sunday at the Christian Central Chapel International (CCCI), also known as Faith Mansion, Ikot Enebong, 8 Miles, Calabar, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The thanksgiving service, held at the Faith Mansion World Headquarters, Calabar, attracted top government functionaries, religious leaders and thousands of worshippers.

Represented by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRHA), Elvert Ayambem, Otu stated that Nigerians must see their diversity as a strength and not a fault line.

“Our diversity should not divide us. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and our strength lies in our ability to accommodate our differences while working towards our common aspirations,” he said.

He stated that, 66 years after independence, Nigeria has experienced moments of great promise, difficult seasons and significant transformations, but the resilience of its people has kept the nation going.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the People First Agenda, which he said is anchored on improving lives, creating opportunities for young people, strengthening education and healthcare, and improving infrastructure.

Governor Otu urged Cross Riverians and Nigerians to remain hopeful, reject violence and division, and contribute positively to nation-building. He also called for prayers for wisdom for leaders, peace in communities and comfort for families facing difficult circumstances.

The officiating minister at the event and National Vice President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), South-South Zone, Archbishop Emma Isong (JP), asked Nigerians to stop unnecessary criticism of the nation’s leaders. He also cautioned political and public leaders against making inflammatory statements capable of heating up the polity.

Isong said, “Leaders must control their tongues, as offices have tenures.”

He said that while criticism of government is allowed in a democracy, criminalising leaders is unacceptable, warning against unforgiveness and refusal to reconcile.

He urged Nigerians to desist from rejoicing over the failure of others.

“You cannot pray for your neighbour’s fall only to kneel down and begin to pray to God for your upliftment,” Isong warned.