From Judex Okoro, Calabar
Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State has enjoined Christians to use the Christmas celebration to reaffirm their love and compassion towards one another.
Ayade said, while reflecting on the import of the birth of the saviour, Jesus Christ and its redemptive hope to billions of Christians around the world, they should reignite the flame of love exemplified in Christ’s birth.
In a special goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Christian Ita, Esq, Governor Ayade said Christians should rededicate themselves to the values of love, peace, sacrifice and tolerance as necessary ingredients for peaceful coexistence.
According to Governor Ayade, “Christmas underpins the redemptive role of Christ to mankind, just as it stresses the pivotal place of sacrifice, necessary for a peaceful and harmonious world. So, as Christians, we must remind ourselves that love is the first requirement for a better and peaceful world.”
Governor Ayade: “We must be meek to one another, pull together and support one another. It is the only way that we can mend the chasm and build bridges of unity as a nation.
“This season of Christmas has afforded us a unique opportunity to achieve that. I also enjoin Nigerians to be alive to their civic duty ahead of the forthcoming general elections in 2023 by ensuring that they come out and vote for candidates of their choice.