Xmas: Let us Imbibe Christ’s Virtue – Gov. Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has urged Christians, residents of Oyo State and Nigerians in general to ensure they live in peace and harmony in the spirit of Christmas.

A statement by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa urges Christians to imbibe the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose birth is being celebrated at Christmas.

Governor Makinde said that every resident and indigenes of Oyo State needed to imbibe harmonious coexistence to engender development in the state and Nigeria generally.

The statement encourages Nigerians to reflect on the need to assist the needy as the world celebrate Christmas with family, friends and loved ones.

 Governor Makinde also warned against religious bigotry, declaring that only gullible persons use religion to divide the people.

“I would want our people to live in peace and harmony because development only thrives in an environment where peace reigns.

“Jesus Christ, whom we are celebrating today came to the world and loved his enemies. He preached peace everywhere he went, his lifestyle is worthy of emulation by our people, especially now that certain forces are seeking to divide our people along religious lines.

“I want our people to know that poverty, squalor, and lack know no religion or ethnicity. If those divisive elements come to you, tell them to find other things to do because our unity would remain our source of strength.

“As we look forward towards a prosperous 2020, let us all love our neighbours and brothers like ourselves, let us pray that the Almighty would touch the hearts of some persons who take joy in inflicting pains on the hapless common man. God urges us to be our brothers’ keeper and the least we are expected to do is to show care, love, and compassion and as we live in peace and harmony, our society would be better for it.”

 Iyabo Adebisi