‘You’re Sowing Seeds Of Discord Instead Of Preaching Peace’ – Ibas Slams Tunde Bakare
By Trek Africa Newspaper
• Accuses pastor of distracting from peace efforts in Rivers State.
• Says Rivers crisis affects entire Nigeria, urges unity, not chaos.
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), has condemned Pastor Tunde Bakare’s recent criticism of the federal government, describing the cleric’s comments as unhelpful and divisive, especially during the Easter season.
This medium reports that Pastor Bakare, who is the presiding overseer of the Global Community Citadel Church, had raised alarm over what he described as Nigeria’s descent into tyranny under President Bola Tinubu. He specifically cited the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State as evidence of what he termed “a theatre of the absurd.”
Bakare also took a swipe at the National Assembly, labeling it the “most spineless” in the country’s history for allegedly enabling what he called unchecked executive overreach.
Reacting to the remarks in an interview with The Punch, Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Rivers State Sole Administrator, said Pastor Bakare’s comments were a distraction and did nothing to support peace efforts in the state.
He said, “The administration run by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) is focused and delivering on the mandate he has been given. Rivers State is going through trying times, and we won’t be distracted by the vituperations of people who want two minutes of fame.”
Igbikiowubo questioned Bakare’s relevance, stating he was not known to the state government and suggesting that his failed political ambitions may be influencing his public outbursts.
“If someone leaves the message he should be delivering to the Christian faithful in this season of peace and is instead preaching distraction and seeking attention, we can’t help but ignore,” he said.
He further argued that Pastor Bakare’s comments only served to stir unrest rather than contribute to unity and peace, especially at a time when Rivers State needs healing and calm.
“Rather than seize the opportunity of Easter to preach peace and unity, he chose to sow discord. Tunde Bakare has not helped in this instance, and I will not dignify his commentary with anything beyond pointing this out,” he added.
