Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, on Friday, warned the indigenes against the use of social media to fuel crisis and spread falsehood in the state.

Mr Oborevwori made the call at the funeral service of late Grace Agbolayah at the African Church, Central Missionary Diocese, Warri in Delta.

The governor enjoined the elders of Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic groups to shun divisive systems that had resulted into ethnic conflicts and embrace peace.

According to him, unity remained the only path to sustainable development in Warri and the state at large.

While reaffirming his commitment to the development of Warri, the governor pledged that he would not take sides in the conflict because he represented everyone.

“In all, what we need is unity. I have witnessed crisis and I know its consequences.

“People are using social media to cause problems, this must stop. I want to develop Warri because this is my home.

“I am a man with street credibility and local content, not from the diaspora. Now that I am a governor, I am a governor for all and I will not take sides,” he said.

Mr Oborevwori, who recalled his personal experience during the past crisis in Warri, added that the incident was as a lesson due to the devastating impact of conflict on communities.

The governor reaffirmed his resolved to fast-track development across the state.

He urged critics, particularly those outside the state who sow seeds of discord, to exercise restraint.

He also called on parents and guardians to caution their children against misusing social media for hate campaigns.

The governor described the late Mrs Agbolayah as a shining example of faith, integrity and commitment to family.

“Mama came, saw, and conquered. She served God faithfully and raised her children well, with one now a bishop.

“My prayer is that the wisdom with which Mama raised you will also guide you in raising your children,” he said.

Earlier, His Eminence Julius Abbe, Primate of the African Church, in a sermon titled: “Fight a Good Fight” urged Christians to live as beacons of peace and integrity in a world filled with darkness.

Mr Abbe, while reading his sermon from the Book of II Timothy,

admonished believers to be nation-builders, steadfast in faith, and accountable to God.

The primate described the late Agbolayah as a God-fearing woman, who was at all times devoted to service of the Almighty.

He commended Mr Oborevwori for his contributions to the family, particularly the appointment of Toyin Agbolayah as special adviser on community development.

(NAN)