… but Wike, Abe may still stockpile venoms
Leaders of the two bitterest groups in Rivers State sued for reconciliation on Christmas day, but they seem to stockpile venoms for continued verbal and other wars ahead.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state led by the governor, Nyesom Wike, urged Rivers people to seek reconciliation like Christ, but he followed this up by saying nobody could bring down his government because it was rooted in God.
His bitter rival, Magnus Abe, now a senator from the December 10, 2016 reruns, has also called for reconciliation and peace, but his party, the All Progressives Party (APC), has ceaselessly accused the governor of being behind violence and killings in the state.
As most persons call for reconciliation of the political class, Gov Wike joined the call, urging for reconciliation amongst Rivers and Nigerian political leaders to move the state and country forward.
In a personal Christmas message at the Government House, Port Harcourt on the eve of Christmas, Governor Wike said that unity was needed for enhanced development.
The governor noted that all Nigerians should take advantage of the spirit of the season to promote forgiveness, love and peace.
He said: “I use this opportunity to plead with those who may not have achieved what they wanted to get, to put aside all interests for the sake of Christmas. Let us forgive each other and move the state forward.
“Let us move Rivers State forward, let us move Nigeria forward, that is my personal message this Christmas.”
Governor Wike informed that the beautification of Port Harcourt ahead of the Christmas was aimed putting the people in the right frame of mind for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
He said: “This is a period we should not continue to antagonise ourselves or destroy ourselves because of selfish interests.
On his own, Abe called for unity among Rivers people towards the progress and stability of the state. In a Christmas goodwill message, Abe said it was hoped that insecurity and violence that characterised 2016 would be a thing of the past in 2017.
He urged those who foment trouble to sheath their sword and embrace peace in the overall interest of the state. “I want to appeal to all Rivers men and women that we come together, work together for peace, security and stability of our state. I’m sure it is the intention of Rivers people that they need to see change in the way politics is conducted in Rivers State.”
The former Secretary to Rivers State government commended the people of Rivers South East for voting for him, assuring them that by the grace of God that their hope will not be dashed.
