The Special Adviser to the Governor on Imo Orientation Agency,Chief Dr. Fidel Onyeneke, has appealed to Imo residents to show a high level of warm reception and hospitality to persons who will enter the state for Christmas celebrations.
Chief Onyeneke, who made the appeal in Owerri on Tuesday,said that people should have an open mind and shun any act that would threaten any individual during this Yultide period.
He stressed the need for harmony and peaceful co-existence in the various communities as a deliberate effort to give everybody a sense of belonging.
Chief Onyeneke emphasized the need to shun all forms of exploitation and discriminatory tendencies capable of making life unbearable for anybody.
He urged the masses not to see the Christmas period as an opportunity for the unwarranted acquisition of wealth and an ostentatious lifestyle
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The Special Adviser urged leaders at all levels and other individuals to set in motion appropriate machinery that would check the excesses of miscreants whose interest is to cause mayhem and other acts of insecurity, especially in rural areas.
He challenged youths to occupy themselves rather than getting involved with nefarious acts, including robbery and kidnapping,capable of ruining their lives.
Chief Onyeneke also urged the security operations to exhibit professionalism and proactiveness as they protect the property and lives of the citizens during this festive period.
The Special Adviser expressed happiness that the Imo State government had embarked on the rehabilitation of some rural roads as well as put on the ground the needed facilities to further enhance security in different parts of the state.
Chief Onyeneke appealed to Imo residents to be very accommodating and discourage utterances and behaviors that would deter returnees and visitors alike from having confidence in the government and its agencies.