The Governor of Delta State Senator Ifeanyi Okowa on Sunday during a Valedictory Thanksgiving Service ascribed the peace and unity that prevailed in the state to God’s mercy, saying he was leaving a more peaceful and united state.
The service was to mark the end of his administration at the St. Philips Anglican Church, Asaba.
The Governor and his deputy, Mr. Kingsley Otuaro, were at the Service to thank God for what He had done for them, his family and the state for the past eight years. Okowa said the mercy of God enabled him to deliver on his promises.
“One thing I must thank God greatly for is the fact that there is peace and unity in this state. That we have had peace in this last 8 years, is by the grace of God.
“But, the unity in the state is borne out of the fact that God did the arrangement by Himself that today, this state can rightfully say that we stand on a tripod.
“Every senatorial district has had its impact and has been able to occupy the office of governance in this state. God made it possible and for that reason,I believe that Delta will continue to grow,” he said.
The governor used the opportunity to apologise to those he may have offended and forgave those who deliberately offended him in the course of his duty.
“For those who in the course of duty, I have had cause to step on their toes, I say forgive me. It possibly was because we had to do our work. I don’t think we did so deliberately.
“But, at some point in time, decisions had to be taken. Sometimes, those decisions are difficult but a man has to take the decision. I thank all of you for your cooperation. Please find a place in your hearts to forgive me.
“For those who hurt me deliberately or unknowingly, I promise you that I have forgiven all. We must move on as a people.
“We are one people, as Deltans, our destiny as a state are tied together. Therefore, we must continue to pray and work together to ensure that we make Delta state a much better place,” he stated
Okowa commended the Governor-elect, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori and his deputy urging them to keep the altar in the Government House Chapel alive.
He also thanked the Speaker, members of the House of Assembly and the judiciary for their support and cooperation which contributed to the success of his administration.
The Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev’d Henry Ndukuba in his goodwill message, commended the Governor for the different ways he has touched the lives of people and the church, describing Okowa as a man of faith and prayed for greater glory and wisdom upon him and his family.
Archbishop of Bendel Province and Bishop of Ughelli Diocese, Most Rev’d Dr. Cyril Odutemu, in a sermon said it has been 8 years of abundant grace from the Lord, adding that Delta has been a very peaceful state because of the help of God.
The valedictory service was attended by wife of the Governor, Dame Edith Okowa; Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; Speaker of the State House of Assembly and Governor-elect Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife Tobore; Deputy Governor-elect Sir Monday Onyeme.
Others include State Chief Judge, Justice Theresa Diai; Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Chief Ndudi Elumelu and Senator James Manager, among others.
