Oyebanji urges peaceful coexistence, national unity at Christmas

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has urged residents of the state and Nigerians at large to use the Christmas season to promote love, peace and harmonious living for the good of society.

The governor, who congratulated Christians and the people of Ekiti on witnessing another Christmas, said the festive period offers an opportunity for sober reflection and prayers for sustained peace and development in the state and the country.

In his Christmas message, signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Olayinka Oyebode, Oyebanji said the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises God’s love for mankind and His desire for a peaceful world.

He encouraged residents to embrace the core values of Christmas, including sacrifice, tolerance, humility, compassion and care for the less privileged, noting that these virtues remain relevant to building a better society.

Oyebanji stressed that the season should go beyond merriment, urging citizens to reassess their relationship with God and extend kindness to fellow human beings.

“As we rejoice during this Yuletide season, 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.”