Gov. Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has urged Christian faithful in the state to show love and be united towards containing the coronavirus pandemic.

Emmanuel made the call in his Easter message to the people of the state in Uyo on Sunday.

He said the government was forced to enforce the restriction of movement order, not to inflict pains on the people but as necessary measures to curtail the spread of the pandemic.

He noted that the season of Easter was a period of sacrifice and love towards one another.
“This season of love and sacrifice has come at a time when most of the world is in a lockdown as a result of the need to stop mankind from being consumed by the fatal fangs of one of the most virulent pandemics in recent history COVID-19.

“The times have given us a new lexicon or a new-fangled phrase – social distancing, but thankfully, not love distancing.

“We should therefore, ensure that not one person in our neighbourhood is deprived of this essential ingredient by virtue of this lockdown which circumstances have forced upon us.

“Let us bridge the gap of social distancing with the cords of God’s love in sharing our foods and groceries with our neighbours.

“We must continue to stand together in unity as one people having one state and worshipping only One God.

“We must turn again to the promise of Easter which is that what God did in the resurrection of Jesus, God will do again for this blessed state,” he said.

Emmanuel commended the health professionals, who were at the forefront of combating the Coronavirus pandemic for their sacrifice and risks taken to contain the dreaded disease.
“To our sons and daughters who are at the battlefront of our fight to rid our state of this virus, we salute your courage and appreciate the risks that you are taking to keep our society safe.

“We also salute the security personnel for maintaining the peace and security in our dear state, standing under scorching sun.

“This may not be a happy Easter for them, but we know that as God rewarded the midwives of Egypt for their kindness to the children of Israel.

“He will reward every one of them with immeasurable blessings and protection.

“Let us pray for their safety and strength. Let us pray for the recovery of those who have contacted the virus and are receiving treatment,” he said.

The governor reminded residents that the lockdown order and other measures already announced to contain Coronavirus were still in force, adding that residents would be notified when the measures were relaxed.