Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has felicitated with people of the state, Nigerians and Christians in general at Easter, imploring them to renew hope in the advancement of the state and the country at large.
Speaking during the Easter Cantata service at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Diri expressed the optimism that Nigeria would emerge stronger from the current economic and security challenges.
In a statement yesterday by the chief press secretary to the governor, Mr Daniel Alabrah, Diri said the situation of Nigeria was redeemable adding that the signs were beginning to manifest.
Drawing from the example of Jesus Christ who sacrificed his life for mankind, Governor Diri urged citizens to also sacrifice in order for Bayelsa and Nigeria to move forward.
He recalled the efforts and sacrifices of the founding fathers of Bayelsa and called for all hands to be on deck to make the state greater.
He advised the current crop of leaders in the state to bequeath worthy legacies for the younger generation.
The Bayelsa helmsman equally stressed the need for Christians not to be hearers of the word only but to let the teachings of Christ reflect in their lives, insisting that it was the only way the country can make progress.
He said, “My message for this Easter season is that of hope and renewal. From the beginning of our first tenure, we have preached love.
“It was the sacrifice of Jesus over 2000 years ago that has kept us alive and there is none like Him. At times like this, we need to reflect on who we are. Are we just church goers? How do the teachings of Christ reflect on our lives?
“Some persons might say the governor is weak. But, for me, the best way to use power is not to use it. Jesus had the power to free himself but He did not use it. Rather, he sacrificed his life on our behalf. So, what are we sacrificing for our children and our state? What legacy are we leaving?
“This is a state we fought for and celebrated when it was created. Leaders sacrificed to give us a state. What are we sacrificing?
“My dear people of Bayelsa, there is hope. Let us leave hatred and learn to forgive otherwise our Heavenly Father would not forgive us our sins. Bayelsa is blessed.”
In his sermon, Bishop Michael Amamieye emphasised the importance of prayer as exemplified by Jesus and urged Christians to make it a way of life.