Chuks Uzochukwu
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma has been applauded for his leadership ingenuity and commitment to uplift the socio-economic and spiritual lives of people in the state through the sponsorship of the 1000 citizens to Jordan and Israel for pilgrimage.
Commenting on the gesture, Mr Isreal Orphir, General Manager of Orphir Tours, the body managing Imo batch C pilgrims in Jordan and Israel, said the importance of the spiritual exercise in the life of every Christian can never be over emphasized.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHe urged other state governments and able-bodied organisations in Nigeria and across the world to emulate Governor Uzodinma in encouraging Christians to have first hand experience from adventures that would enhance their personal and communal life as well as make them good Christians and citizens for the overall good of the society.
Meanwhile, reacting to report that some Imo pilgrims were arrested for misconduct, Mr Isreal as well as the Deputy Chief of Staff, Barr. Emeka Agbo and Mr Modestus Nwamkpa, Special Adviser to the Governor (Media) who are currently in Jordan, described it as handwork of mischief makers who do not mean well for the state.
They also commended the governor for his thoughtfulness and urged the contingents to utilize the rare opportunity to pray for peace and unity of Imo State and Nigeria as a nation.
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They equally advised pilgrims to pray God to afford Governor Uzodinma more strength and wisdom to continue his good works in the state.
Isreal said: “as far as we can see, Imo pilgrims are really doing a great job. In fact, you are like the real ambassadors of Nigeria in Jordan and Israel. You people are behaving well and the local people here are really appreciative of your coming.
“Even the management of the hotels have come to tell us that you people are different from other pilgrims they have had. So you people should continue like that because you are doing well.”
Also, Barr. Agbo said, “As for now, I am the leader of this delegation currently in Jordan. There was no issue of Police matter or misconduct from anybody. Nobody was arrested. Such false report can only come from mischief makers.”
“The conduct of Imo pilgrims here in Jordan and Israel has been fantastic. The first and second batch that went came back without any one absconding. And the current contingents, for now, we have not recorded any untold behaviour from any of them.
“The Jordan authorities are even commending us. And of course, the people that are here are well behaved, mature and well trained Imolites.” Nwamkpa added.
And speaking on the importance of the spiritual exercise, he said, “pilgrimage sponsorship is what every state is expected to be doing to encourage Christian sect. So I believe that Governor Uzodinma doing it is a welcomed development and should be commended.”
