Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has urged Christians in the state to put aside denominational differences and work together to strengthen the body of Christ.
Diri made the call on Tuesday during the inauguration of the new State Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bayelsa Chapter, at the Redeemed Glory Family Church, Agudama-Epie, Yenagoa.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Peter Akpe, said greater unity among Christians was necessary for the Church to fulfil its divine purpose and contribute meaningfully to the development of Bayelsa State and Nigeria.
He noted that unity remained a major source of strength, stressing that a united Christian body could achieve more in the service of God and humanity.
Diri, however, expressed concern over what he described as bickering, greed and personal interests within sections of the Church.
He said unity could only thrive through sacrifice, love and acceptance of one another, regardless of denominational differences.
The governor also urged Christian leaders to remain courageous and speak truth to power, insisting that the pulpit should preach the gospel without fear or partisan considerations.
While congratulating the outgoing executive council led by Very Rev. Father Joseph Opelema, Diri expressed confidence that the new leadership would build on the existing relationship between CAN and the state government.
The newly inaugurated chairman, Rev. Abili Samuel Abili, pledged to lead the association with humility and a strong sense of responsibility.
Other members of the new CAN executive include Bishop Dotimi Egbegi as vice chairman, Rev. Father Raymond Ogiramkopu Ogio as secretary, and Senior Apostle Michael Makpa as treasurer.
In his remarks, CAN South-South Vice Chairman, Rev. Father Victor Ofili, commended the Bayelsa chapter for its unity and financial commitment to the national body.
The inauguration was attended by Christian leaders and other dignitaries, including the member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, Chief Fred Agbedi, and the Chairman of Yenagoa Local Government Area, Mr Bulodisiye Ndiwari.
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