Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state took the message of peace to the creeks of the Niger Delta, saying peace was a panacea for meaningful development to take place.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan paid a courtesy visit to the community’s traditional ruler of Gbaramatu, a kingdom in Warri, Delta state
According to the duo, destruction of pipelines in the area has not only affected revenue generated to the federation accounts but, has also, reduced revenue accruable to Delta state.
The colourful ceremony that took place on Tuesday, December 6, attracted apolitical office holders, traditional rulers, captains of industries, including representatives of different countries' presidents.
Both leaders spoke at the presentation of staff of office to the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II, Warri South west local government area of Delta state.
"We need peace for development to take place, Nigeria is a great nation, no matter what is happening, Nigeria will, Niger Delta will succeed, Gbaramatu Kingdom will succeed," Dr Jonathan said.
The president was received by was received by the traditional ruler of the kingdom in Delta state, William NS Ogoba, Oboro Gbaraun II, the Agadagba and other top officials
Governor Okowa emphasized that his administration was committed to executing developmental projects in the creeks of the Niger Delta but requires peace for such to take place.
The governor asserted: "It is time we realize that under a peaceful atmosphere, where everybody lives in peace, we can build a future of trust for our children.
There is no alternative to partnership, when you are aggrieved, you have reasons to feel bad but, we can carry out our agitations with dialogue.
It is time to forgive those who needs to be forgiven because, when we do that, it will be easier for us to speak boldly and be heard," the governor said.
The people of Gbaramatu Kingdom were congratulated for the peaceful way they chose their king
He also congratulated the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom for the peaceful way they chose their king.
Governor Okowa reiterated: "We need to pay greater attention to the development of the creeks and the riverine communities."
HRM Oboro Gbaraun II at the occasion, thanked Governor Okowa for his developmental strides and used the occasion to charge the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom to always uphold their culture.
