Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on church leaders in Rivers State to protect the sanctity of the pulpit by ensuring it is not used for personal attacks or divisive speeches.

During the Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA) in Port Harcourt, the governor highlighted the importance of using the pulpit to promote peace and unity.

Governor Fubara emphasized that the pulpit is a sacred space meant for positive and constructive messages. He urged church leaders to intervene immediately if any speaker, including himself, deviates from this purpose. He encouraged leaders to take back the microphone to ensure the pulpit remains a platform for fostering harmony and respect.

The governor’s remarks underscore the responsibility of church leaders to maintain the spiritual integrity of the pulpit while discouraging divisive or abusive language. By doing so, the church can continue to be a force for good, building unity within communities.

Fubara’s message serves as a reminder that the pulpit must always reflect the values of peace, love, and respect, which are essential for the growth and stability of society.

Fubara said, “Let me also appeal to all the religious bodies in this state. Please, your pulpit should be a place to talk about the progress and unification of the people of Rivers State.

“It shouldn’t be a point of an opportunity for people to cast aspersions, to abuse people, to say all sorts of things, and more worrisome, in the House of God.

“Please, I want to beg you. You need to stop it, including myself. If I start shooting out of order, drag the mic from me.”