Gôvernor Douye Diri of Bayelsa has felicitated Nigerians, particularly Christians, on the Easter celebrations, urging them to renew hope in the advancement of the state and the country at large.
The governor spoke on Saturday during the Easter Cantata Service at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa,
Diri expressed optimism that Nigeria would emerge stronger from the current economic and security challenges.
He said that the situation of Nigeria was redeemable and the signs were beginning to manifest.
Diri urged citizens to sacrifice for Bayelsa and Nigeria to move forward, drawing from the example of Jesus Christ, who sacrificed his life for mankind
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.
The governor advised the current crop of leaders in the state to bequeath worthy legacies for the younger generation.
According to Diri, Christians should not be hearers of the word only, but also let the teachings of Christ reflect in their lives, because that is the only way the country can make progress.
“My message for this Easter season is that of hope and renewal. From the beginning of our first tenure, we have preached love.
“It is 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 and 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,” Diri said.
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.
According to the bishop, Jesus did not use the power available to him for himself because he wanted to save mankind.
“In imitating Christ, Christians must be willing to make sacrifices for peace and progress,” he said.
