COVID-19: Ex-Gov. Dickson cancels birthday celebration, seeks prayers, support for the needy
Immediate past governor of Bayelsa State and the senator representing Bayelsa West senatorial district in the National Assembly, Sen. Henry Seriake Dickson, has asked friends and well wishers to use the opportunity of his birthday tomorrow to pray for an end to the raging Corona virus pandemic.
The senator, who turns 55 totomorrow, January 28, said the times call for utter sobriety, cautiousness and respect of every Covid-19 protocol, especial as it relates to social gatherings, social distancing and other non-pharmaceutical protocols.
Although the former governor is not known for overtly celebrating his birthday, a message on his confirmed social media handles underscores the mood of the nation, as he appeals for understanding of friends a d associates.
He appeals that all resources and efforts be channelled towards the needy to help them survive the prevailing hardship brought about by the economic crunch of the pandemic.
The message reads in part:
“I have just been reminded that tomorrow is my birthday. As most people know, I do not have the habit of celebrating birthdays.
Related Posts
“In normal times, I would mark it during my normal morning family devotions and follow it up with a visit to a charity organization. But this year, in view of the raging COVID-19 virus and the deaths, inconveniences and hardships it has caused, I use this opportunity to call for more prayers for our troubled world and all humanity, and for all the lives that have been affected and impacted in different ways.
“I also want to inform all friends and well wishers not to engage in any public form of celebration by adverts, paid announcements, celebrations, etc. I want to advise that those resources and time if any, should be used to support charity organisations and the needy in whichever way they can.
“I urge my numerous friends, associates, supporters and well wishers to remember me in their prayers and to thank God Almighty for his boundless grace, mercy and faithfulness to me and my family so far. A story like mine can only be possible by the finger of God.
“For those of you who have been part of this incredible journey, directly or indirectly, and who have always been supportive, I pray that God that has always had mercy and guided me thus far, will do so for you too”.
