By Victor Akinkuolie
Ado-Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has urged the people of the state and other Nigerians to use the Christmas period to deepen love and harmonious relationships among themselves to foster a better society.

The Governor, who congratulated the people of the state on witnessing another Christmas, said the season offers an opportunity for sober reflection and prayers for the state in particular and Nigeria in general, for sustained peace and development.

In his Christmas message, contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, the Governor said the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ calls for celebration as it signalled God’s special favour to mankind by bringing the Prince of Peace to the world.

The Governor extended his best wishes to the people of Ekiti State, urging them to embrace the messages of love for one another, sacrifices, tolerance, humility, compassion, and care for those in distress, which were the hallmarks of Jesus Christ’s teachings during his public ministry.

He stressed that Christmas is not meant for eating, drinking, and merriment alone but for reassessing one’s relationship with their Maker and exploring ways to help fellow human beings, as well as showing love, compassion, and kindness.

“As we rejoice at this momentous occasion, the true essence of the season must not be lost on us. We should reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and its significance to mankind. This offers an opportunity to deepen love for ourselves and strengthen our harmonious relationships.

“Let us be our brothers’ keepers by showing love and compassion to one another as exemplified by our Lord Jesus Christ, whose birth we are celebrating this season.

“I urge the Christian faithful to practise the teachings of Jesus Christ by living in peace and harmony with adherents of other faiths. We should exhibit virtues of humility, tolerance, perseverance, and compassion as exemplified by Jesus Christ,” he said.

The Governor called on the Christian community and indeed all the people of the state not to relent in their prayers for his administration to realise its vision of Shared Prosperity for the overall benefit of the people of the state.