The choice of the theme “The Call for Repentance” for the 3rd session of the 21st synod of the Diocese of Niger Delta Diocese held at St. Simon’s Anglican Church, Ikuru Town in the Andoni Local Government Area, has been applauded and described as timely and significant in the nation’s affairs.
The executive governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi made the commendation last Sunday while speaking during the thanksgiving service to mark the end of the synod at St. Simon’s church, Ikuru town.
Governor Amaechi said the choice of the theme is timely, appropriate and significant as the nation is in search of repentance and change, positing that the era of carrying gun to amass wealth is over and appealed to the church to emphasize the call for repentance.
“If we do not talk about repentance now, when would we talk about it”.
He said if the church and men of God deviate from their assignment, the nation would be in jeopardy, hence the need to redouble efforts in ensuring that the people walk on the right path.
The Governor and his Deputy, Engr. Tele Ikuru were represented at the occasion by the executive chairman of Andoni, Sir. Hon. Orom Nte Ereforokuma.
The soft spoken chairman commended the church for its fervent prayers which ushered in peace in the area, saying that though Andoni may not be the safest LGA in Rivers but revealed that every community in Andoni was peaceful and safe because of the prayers of the church, while enjoining the church to continue in prayers.
Earlier, the Chairman, Sir. Ereforokuma was represented at the opening ceremony and launch of the 2013 Synod report and Bishop’s charge by the Chief of Staff to Andoni LG, Sir. Dr. Emmanuel S. Abbey (JP).
The chairman through his Chief of Staff had told the church that it has been of immense support to the peaceful disposition of Andoni Local Government Area, stressing that peace is synonymous to development.
Sir Abbey who conveyed the chairman’s unflinching support to the church expressed satisfaction with the church’s evangelical activities in the area, noting that the chairman who was unavoidably absent at opening ceremony was aware of the Synod’s and thanked the delegates especially the visiting bishops for defying the terrain of the LGA to be at Ikuru town for the Synod.
The Chief of Staff on his individual capacity did also launch the Synod report and bishop’s charge.
Meanwhile, the Rt. Rev. Ralph Cornelius Ebirien (JP), the chief host has appreciated the Governor, Deputy and Chairman for finding time to honour the invitation of the church. ###
