By Ere-ebi Agedah
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has urged residents of the state, to practice sacrificial giving and embrace the spirit of love as a practical example of Christ.
This was contained in a Christmas Message by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, stating that Christianity is an expression of practical love for fellow man.
Diri, who urged the Christian faithful to practice the teachings of Jesus and as much as it is within their power live in peace with all added that his administration will continue to foster love, reconciliation, unity and togetherness in the State.
‘‘On behalf of my family and the Government of Prosperity, I send best wishes to all Christians in Bayelsa, and, indeed, around the world, for a Merry Christmas.
‘‘The birth of Jesus our Saviour brought good tidings to mankind. So, Christmas is another time for Christians and followers of Christ to reflect on the purpose of his birth.
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 live in peace with all.
My administration will continue to be guided by these noble principles in fostering love, reconciliation, unity and togetherness in Bayelsa State as we strive 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” he said.
