By Abel Johngold Orheruata
The Delta State Commissioner for Finance, Sir Fidelis Okenmor Tilije yesterday disclosed that the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa is closing all financial leakages in government.
Sir. Tilije made the disclosure during a familiarization visit by some executive of the State Chapter of the Online Media Practitioners of Nigeria (OMPAN) in Asaba.
He said Corruption was a major issue in Nigeria but all leakages will be closed in the State by the State Government.
The Honourable Commissioner noted that financial leakages not only weaken government, they hurt the populace, to whom government, by its avowed constitutional responsibility, should render social and economic services.
“When, for instance, road is constructed with poor materials, it fails within a short period and becomes dysfunctional. In such state, no one is spared the consequences of using the road. Again, when a huge chunk of budgetary provision for electricity ends up in private pockets, individuals and corporate entities are left to fend for themselves”. He added.
Sir. Tilije stated that it was in the light of the foregoing that he perceive the timely caution by Governor Okowa against leakages as not only a patriotic call, but an invitation to repentance. It is an invitation to public officers and political office holders to follow the path of probity. “A clear change of attitude is called for at this point in time”. He said.
Stating further, he said the government was no longer ready to tolerate such behaviour. That the governor had warned that those caught defrauding the state will be duly punished. That that was enough warning to a wise servant. He urged strict adherence, by all, to the public caution.
“We, as government servant are to ensure we deliver at the highest speed of governance”. The Finance Commissioner pledged.
While advising the group to ensure they publish only credible news, Sir. Tilije who said he was happy to be in the midst of OMPAN members, said no one will overlook or play with the Online Media now because its supersonic.
He noted that credible news would make the concerned person to be low in spirit but if the news is not credible the concerned person will want to dwarf the writer through legal means.
“Crosscheck any news you hear about the State Government before publishing. Gov Okowa has upped the anthem since 2015”. He advised.
Earlier, the OMPAN chairman in the State, Comrade Peter Legacy said the essence of the courtesy visit was to familiarize with the Finance Ministry so as to be getting first hand information about anything finance in the State.
Comrade Legacy pledged a cordial working relationship of the body with the Delta State Government and the general public.