[From CHRIS EZE, Yenagoa]
Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri has urged Christians all over the world to use the occasion of Christmas celebration to reflect on the purpose of birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour.
The governor who gave the charge in his Christmas message in Yenagoa said the birth of Jesus brought good tidings to mankind.
“As God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son, it is important to recognize that the reason for the season is the sacrifice of our Heavenly Father and similarly replicate this example in our relationship with others.
“Christmas is thus a period to show love and practice sacrificial giving. Christianity is after all an expression of practical love for fellow man.
“I, therefore, urge the Christian faithful to practice the teachings of Jesus and as much as it is within their power to live in peace with all”, the governor said.
Governor Diri assured that his administration would continue to be guided by the noble principles in fostering love, reconciliation, unity and togetherness in Bayelsa State to bring shared prosperity.
“Ahead of the 2023 elections, in the spirit of the occasion of the Christmas celebrations and festivities, I implore politicians in Bayelsa and elsewhere in Nigeria to be tolerant and eschew violent conduct. The election should be a contest of ideas and choices and not an opportunity to settle political scores or an excuse for calumny.
“Let us seek to enthrone leaders that subscribe to fair contests and reject those who believe that elections should be won no matter the costs. It is not a do-or-die.
“On behalf of our Prosperity Administration, I again extend warm Christmas felicitations to the people of Bayelsa and all men of goodwill.”
The governor had earlier at the state’s Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons on Friday night.
awarded scholarship to a three-year-old girl, Zoe Ebimie-Eleke, following her excellent performance.
The event held at the Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre in Yenagoa featured little Zoe, who did a rendition on the “A to Z of Jesus Christ.”