C’River: God will restore our state from collapse – Gov Otu
From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has admitted that the state was doing well before it collapsed but he is confident God will restore the land.
The governor disclosed this at the maiden edition of the state’s Interdenominational Solemn Assembly held at the Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC), Calabar over the weekend.
A statement made available by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary Emmanuel Ogbeche quoted the governor as saying that said it is time for Cross Riverians to render sacrifice through service for the overall development of the state.
“Barely a month ago, we all assembled like this to celebrate the victory and enthronement of the Season of Sweetness, today is the spiritual seasoning of that season.
“I know Cross River was doing well until it eventually collapsed but as we all heed to God’s directives to gather and pray in unity, God will heal and restore our land again.
“For those who have the opportunity to be elected or appointed, let me remind you that power belongs to God. The position you occupy today is not to oppress others but to diligently serve them and I will not relent in sacking anyone who act contrary.
“Let me assure you that I have not changed and will not be influenced not even by my office as your governor. Power does not intoxicate me, because I believe that power is for service. It is very transient. Where you find yourself today be reminded that in no distant time, another person will occupy that same office”, the governor was quoted as saying.
The governor also called on those who are still aggrieved following the outcome of the elections to sheath their swords, Otu appealed, “all those who had the intention to fight should please down their tools because the elections are over and now is the time to build a strong and virile Cross River State again.
Declaring the purpose for which the Solemn Assembly was organized, the convener and Wife of the Governor, Rev (Mrs) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, disclosed that it was gather Cross Riverians and residents from all works of life to seek God’s intervention in healing a once peaceful and hospitable land from all forms of vices that has taken over the state.
She said the state was taken over by demonic tendencies and called on the people of the state to join hands in liberating and restoring the state.
“When I realized that our land was no longer peaceful and was taken over by demonic tendencies that are tantamount to underdevelopment, we privately went to God for intervention and as the Lord brought us on board to lead the state, we decided that we should collectively come together and join our hands in prayer to God for total healing, liberation and restoration of our dear state.
“I urge you not to relent in this apostolic mandate of praying for us and most importantly for God to grant my husband the wisdom to lead the state aright.”
In his sermon, General Overseer of Christ Chapel Int’l Church, Bishop Emma Isong, admonished Cross Riverians to see themselves as partners in progress in creating a peaceful, united and economically viable state that will be the envy of all.
Isong, who spoke on the theme, “Turn Away From Evil,” as recorded in 2 Chronicles 7 verse 14, enumerated some of the evil acts that has overtaken the land and affected governance negatively to include; selfishness, blackmail, double crossing amongst other vices that are inimical to growth and development.
