The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has lamented that many Nigerian households are unable to celebrate Christmas this year due to the severe economic challenges facing the country.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, Abure expressed concern over the financial difficulties that have made it impossible for many families to partake in the festive season.
Despite these hardships, Abure encouraged Nigerians to embrace the true spirit of Christmas by showing love, serving one another, and forgiving those who have wronged them. He urged citizens to extend compassion to the millions of Nigerians living below the poverty line, who continue to struggle amid the country’s economic crisis.
Reflecting on the life of Jesus Christ, who was born in humble circumstances, Abure reminded Nigerians that Christ’s life was dedicated to helping the poor, the oppressed, and the sick. He called on people to embody these values during the holiday season, emphasizing the importance of helping those who are less fortunate.
Abure also took time to recognize the sacrifices made by members of the military, many of whom are away from their families, working to ensure the safety and security of the country. He urged Nigerians to keep these soldiers in their prayers, as they continue to protect the nation from threats of terrorism and violence.
In addition, the Labour Party chairman spoke about the power of forgiveness, urging Nigerians to follow the teachings of Christ and forgive those who have wronged them. He stressed that forgiveness is essential for peace and unity, and that holding onto bitterness and resentment only harms society.
Abure concluded his message by reflecting on the sacrifice of Christ, who gave his life for the redemption of humanity. He called on Nigerians to allow the significance of Christ’s birth to inspire their actions, promoting love, peace, and compassion in their communities.
“It will interest you to know that not many homes in Nigeria can afford to join in today’s celebration of Christmas because of the economic challenges Nigeria is facing today. But I am using this opportunity to task the society to show love to a neighbour who may be in one form of lack or the other.
“Also at this time, I think of all the men and women serving in the military to ensure our safety, who may not be privileged to be with their loved ones. Thank you for your service.
“As I speak, many of our gallant soldiers are in some trenches in many parts of the country ensuring that the terrorists and gunmen are kept at bay for the rest of us to celebrate Christmas. I urge all Nigerians, particularly the clerics, to put these patriots in their ceaseless prayers.”
While also preaching about forgiveness, the LP National Chairman said, “there is nothing that will bring more joy to humanity than to be ready and willing to forgive the trespasses of our neighbours against us.
“There is also nothing that will bring more condemnation to humanity than to harden our hearts and to be bitter and vindictive in our feelings towards those by whom we are surrounded.
“I therefore call on Nigerians to imbibe the teaching of Christ that says, ‘Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.”
“What a sacrifice. Today’s celebration cannot be complete until we begin to allow the significance of the birth of Christ to manifest in our lives,” the statement added.
