Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha; Kogi State Christian Association of Nigeria Chairman Emmanuel Egbunu; and his Kwara State counterpart, Rev. James Foloranmi, have called on Nigerians to remain hopeful that the country will surmount its current challenges.
In their Christmas goodwill messages, the trio also emphasised the need for Nigerians to make sacrifice and live in harmony.
On their part, Kwara State House of Assembly Speaker Rasak Atunwa and Zaria Local Government CAN Chairman, Rev. Peter Giwa, urged Nigerians to forgive and tolerate one another.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Okorocha advised Nigerians to shun armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism and corruption.
He said, “As Christians, we are expected to emulate Christ by showing love to the poor and the less privileged while upholding the values of Christianity.
“It is obvious that this season calls for a sober reflection, as Christmas is celebrated to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, who sacrificed his life for mankind.”
Folaranmi said, “The purpose of Christ is to redeem human beings. If we must redeem Nigeria, we must make sacrifices. Whatever sacrifice one makes without peace will not work.
“We should live together irrespective of our religious and ethnic differences. We can live together, we can build this great country.”
Egbunu advised Nigerians not to despair, saying God intervenes in troubled times.
The Bishop said, “The time Jesus was born was also a difficult time and for Nigerians, I expect that we look up to God because with everything that has happened so far, it is clear that we cannot put our hope in any man. But we should look up to God.
“He has come to intervene in our circumstances and I urge Nigerians to look up to God. God brings peace in troubled times.”
In an interview with NAN, Giwa said, “It is essential for Nigerians to note that the best way to build a vibrant, virile and productive nation is to exhibit the spirit of forgiveness, love and care for one another.
“I am appealing to Nigerians to have the mind of Christ, which is the mind of forgiveness; we must also learn to respect each other’s religion, tribe and tradition.
“No meaningful development can be achieved in a chaotic atmosphere, hence the need for all to preach and work for sustainable peace.’’
punchng.com
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