By Festus Ahon

ASABA—AS Nigeria grapples with the present economic downturn occasioned by sharp fall in oil revenue, Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday, called for sober reflection on what should be done to put the country on the irreversible path of progress.

Okowa at the first anniversary thanksgiving service of the 6th Assembly of the Delta State House of Assembly at the Divine Way Baptist Church, Asaba, said that the country was having difficulty in meeting her financial obligations, since the price of oil nose dived in 2014.

He said: “In the midst of plenty that we had, within a space of one day, the price of oil started going down and it has continued. We are not only grappling with poor oil price, but, we are even unable to produce 50 per cent of our allotted capacity. It is time to return to God, only God can heal the land and deliver us, He is able to unite us, bring the glory back, if genuinely we call on His name, the Lord will definitely bless us but, we need to present our hearts to Him to turn things around.”

Speaker of House, Mr Monday Igbuya who took the first reading at the service which was attended by top political office holders, traditional rulers, clergy men, among others,  commended Governor Okowa for effective management of resources to deliver democratic dividends to the people despite the tough economic situation.

Meanwhile, Mr Igbuya has said that he owes no one any explanation for his early endorsement of Governor Okowa for a second term in office.

The Speaker also said that the suspension of the member representing Ughelli South Local Government constituency at the state House of Assembly, Mr. Reuben Izeze had nothing to do with his alleged involvement in an alleged attempt to impeach him, noted that his suspension was as a result of parliamentary misconduct.