Delta Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has called for a proper and thorough screening process as a means to prevent future abscondment of pilgrims.
Governor Okowa made the call today during the Swearing- In of Apostle Sylvannus Okorote as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters and the Inauguration of 7 Boards in Asaba.
Chairmen of the boards include Felix Ofuo(Delta Broadcasting Service Asaba), Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza(Delta Broadcasting Service Warri), David Oghenekevwe(Delta Printing and Publishing Company Board), Dr. Austin Obidi(State Hospitals Management Board), Emmanuel Utomi(Delta Development and Property Authority Board), Princess Tina Amuamuziam and Bishop Cyril Odutemu(Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board).
The governor explained that there was the need for a screening process that was thorough and devoid of sentiment in order to prevent any re -occurrence of pilgrims absconding the moment they arrive the holy land.
“The issue of people absconding in Jerusalem rather than going for the purpose for which they were sent there for is becoming very worrisome and a lot of work is to be done to check this trend;there have been information showing that 3 persons absconded in their pilgrimage trips; there will be an investigation to look into the sources where the recommendations for these individuals came from because such incidence is very embarrassing and that is unacceptable from our state, so the process of screening for pilgrimages must be one that is thorough; one that is devoid of sentiment and when we find those responsible for this mishap they will no longer be allowed to make recommendations now and in the future”.
He charged the chairmen of the boards to work in harmony with the management of the parastatals and agencies saying the boards will provide the policy guidelines and ensure the efficient management of resources so that they can achieve the set objectives and targets of the parastatals and agencies of government.
“This inaugurations and swearing -in is in line with our goal of strengthening this administration for optimal performance and I want to urge the management and board members to realise that when you work together it is more likely to achieve greater strides in the developmentof our state; this should be clearly understood to minimize friction and I believe that the common goal for all to have is to perform at our various agencies and be able to do our duties”.
Apostle Sylvannus Okorote thanked Governor Okowa for the appointment and assured that the religious bodies in the state would contribute meaningfully to the achievement of the agenda of a stronger Delta.
Also responding on behalf of the Board chairmen Dr. Austin Obidi pledged that they would carry out their duties to the service of Deltans committedly.
PRESS UNIT,
GOVT. House, ASABA
