Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has warned FCT intending pilgrims to drop the idea of absconding from holy land, that if caught the full wrath of law will be applied on them.
FCTA permanent secretary, Olusade Adesola, stated this at a pre-departure orientation programme for FCT pilgrims, which was organised by FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board in Abuja.
The permanent secretary said, “For those who are planning to abscond, I want to warn you now, to drop the plan because security will catch you and you will be in serious trouble.
“To all our intending pilgrims, congratulations. I congratulate you all for being part of this historic occasion. I want to believe to some of us it is a dream come true, while to others it may be the fulfilment of a life ambition.
“Whatever it is, we thank the almighty God that the dream has come to pass. I want to assure you that we at the board are working round the clock to give you better service and make sure that you have an inch-free pilgrimage experience.
“As we embark on this journey, I want to reiterate that it is a spiritual exercise, please do not lose focus, be prayerful, attentive, punctual, and make sure you participate in all the activities in the Holy Land. Our Spiritual fathers, tour guide and security personnel, and welfare staff will be on hand to support you.”
Earlier, the acting director of the pilgrims’ board Isa Rahila urged the intending pilgrims to ensure they abide by the rules and regulations cooperate with the officials, and be their brothers’ keepers.
She, however, warned the pilgrims against roaming around, going out alone, and leaving their comfort zone.
“Ensure you cooperate with the officials, your tour guide, etc. Do not go out alone and if you have to go out alone ensure your roommate knows your whereabouts,” she said.
