Rivers State government has warned the people of the state against complacency in the face of the new wave of coronavirus in some parts of the world.
It therefore urged them to continue to observe COVID-19 prevention protocols.
The message was given on Sunday by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Engr. Emeka Woke.
Woke who spoke during the Adults Harvest Thanksgiving service at Ebenezer Anglican Church, Rumuowha, Eneka Deanery in Obio- Akpor local government area of Rivers State, pointed out that the resurgence of COVID-19 in Europe was becoming a cause for concern around the world.
“I want to reiterate what Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike had said, let us not relax and assume that COVID-19 is gone, COVID-19 is not gone yet. For those watching international news, you will notice that there is almost a second wave in European countries. So let us not relax,” he said.
The Chief of State appealed to the leadership of the Church in Rumuowha and the entire state, to enforce COVID-19 prevention protocols.
He also enjoined the people to always put on facemask, observe social distancing guidelines and other protocols of COVID-19.
“This year 2020, the number of persons who have died of COVID-19 is very alarming. People used to think COVID-19 infection was only for the wealthy, but, look at the number of persons who have died from March to date. But we are here and alive. What else can you give to God than thanks,” he said.
Woke noted that the period of thanksgiving was a period to appreciate God for his steadfast love and grace.
“As Christians, we know that God values thanksgivings. That’s why His Son, Jesus Christ after healing ten lepers, took cognisance of the only one who came back to say thank you. Jesus had asked, were there not ten lepers that were healed? How come it is only you that has come to give thanks? If Jesus does not care about thanksgiving, he wouldn’t have asked that question.”
He stated further: “So let’s not see harvest like a normal ritual without any significance. For me, the period of thanksgiving is not a period of show off, it is not a period of how much I have; such perceptions are wrong. The concept of thanksgiving is the period of giving back. It’s a time to say God thank you for the gift of life and all you have done for me.”
He pledged to support the church to advance God’s work here on earth.
According to him, “we will continue to contribute to the growth of the church.”
