Osun state Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola has charged Nigerians to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ and rededicate themselves to God by abstaining from all forms of immoral act.
He called on the citizens particularly christians to imbibe the lessonsand spirit of love, peace, harmony and good neighbourliness as preached and demonstrated by Jesus Christ.
Governor Oyetola stated this on Thursday while addressing the congregation of different Christian denominations under the aegis of Osun State Christian Association of Nigeria (OS-CAN), at the 2019 Christmas Carol, organised by OS-CAN in conjuction with Osun State Government, at Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo.
Governor Oyetola who described peace as sine qua non to development, called on Nigerians to love one another and always see themselves as brothers and sisters.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Mr Benedict Alabi, Governor Oyetola appealed to Christians to see the season as a period of sober reflection to effect purification and righteousness on their past, present and future.
He stressed the need for Nigerians to move closer to God and eschew all that is forbidden, saying “this remains the only way to eternal life”.
Governor Oyetola attributed some of the societal menace like kidnapping, banditry, corruption, robbery among other public and private misconduct to lack of fear of God.
While assuring the citizens of a hitch-free yuletide celebrations, Oyetola said the state remains committed to maintaining the atmosphere of peace that the state is known for.
He added that the state had begun massive infrastructure renewal to ease transportation within and outside the state and putting up efforts to strengthen the security before, during and after the festive season.
He said: ” The best way to celebrate Chrismas is to emulate Jesus in all we do. We must rededicate ourselves to God and do everything in accordance with His commandments.
“This is the period to renew our belief in God. It is the time for sober reflection and time to love one another and do things to promote peace, harmony and togetherness.
“On our part as a government, we shall continue to maintain peace that our state is known for”.
In his remarks, the Chairman OS-CAN, Rev. Amos Ogunrinde, said the programme was put together to promote the existing peace among the citizens regardless of religion, denominations and belief.
He enjoined the residents of the state to champion peace by loving one another and being their brothers and sisters’ keepers.
Also, the Guest Preacher, Rev. Amos Akindeko said the significance of Christmas is for the people to allow Jesus to dwell in their hearts.
He advocated the need for the people to be agents of peace and unity and to walk on the path of righteousness.
