By Raphael Onyekachukwu
A renowned critical thinker and clergyman, Monsignor Obiora Ike has called on all arms of government in the country to pay attention on revenue generation as a way of withstanding the present economic meltdown in the country.
The Catholic Priest who enjoined Nigerians to pay their taxes if they expect government to provide essential services to the people however, warned civil servants in the state to be mindful of their responsibilities by being dedicated, accountable and responsive to their duties to justify their salaries.
Monsignor Ike stated this in a homily during the 2016 Annual New Year interception prayers at Government House, Enugu said to overcome the mess the economy of the country is into it required that all should pray for divine intervention.
Condemning the abuse of power by some political office holders, Fr. Ike urged them to build a strong process of governance devoid of wastes.
The cleric appealed to the people of Enugu state to give Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi trust and support as he has demonstrated selfless service to the people within a short period in office.
Addressing the people Governor Ugwuanyi assured the people that the prevailing harsh economic climate in the country would not prevent the state from attaining the lofty objectives of his administration even as the journey could be tough.
He said his administration has articulated in the state’s 2016 budget, plans and visions to entrench stability and consolidate the current tempo of development in the state.
“We have promised not to allow the prevailing harsh economic climate in the country to prevent us from attaining the lofty objectives that we have set out for the benefit of our people”
Disclosing that government objectives can only be achieved through prayers and active participation Ugwuanyi asked for support of the people.
He called for all hands to be on deck and unrelenting prayers for God’s grace to overcome the economic situation that looks bleak and unpredictable.
There was an inter-cessionary prayer for divine guidance and protection of the state and country.
The event was attended by top government officials, civil servants and top political office holders including the deputy governor of the state, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, Senator Chukwuka Utazi and the Speaker Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Edward Ubosi.
