The Deputy Governor, Professor Ivara Esu has lauded the group known as the “Cross River Elders at the Gate Forum” for interceding in prayers for peace and unity of the state.

Professor Esu made the commendation when the Forum’s Exco Members led by its Chairman, Apostle Inya Egbe paid him a courtesy visit in Government House, Calabar.

He said the Forum of Elders at the Gate and their activity in the state was apt especially at this critical time of electioneering campaigns for the forthcoming general elections.

Professor Esu noted that the composition of membership of the group is men and women of God and integrity who are tested, dedicated, good character and experienced.

The Deputy Governor maintained that their religious Programmes in the state go a long way to impact positively by lifting the state spiritually above the activities of detractors.

He pledged on behalf of the State Government to always assist the forum whenever he is called upon.

The leader of the team and chairman of the forum, Apostle Dr. Inya Egbe posited that the visit was to show appreciation for the assistance and show of love to the forum during her programme, Nigeria Praise Festival at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in January, 2023.

Apostle Egbe Stated that the Cross River Elders at the Gate Forum owed her success in the hosting of the inaugural edition of the Nigeria Praise Festival to the cooperation and assistance of the State Government and expressed the hope that its appreciation be extended to the Governor, Government and people of the state.

The Cross River Elders at the Gate Forum is in partnership with All Christian Churches in the state.

The visit which featured prayer for the State Government, Exco Members and the people of the state was attended by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jane Ekpenyong and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religion Matters, Rev. Father Bob Etta.