The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has lamented that several households cannot afford to celebrate Christmas due to the prevailing economic challenges in the country.
This was disclosed in a Christmas message to Nigerians issued in Abuja on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh.
Abure’s remarks follow President Bola Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast two days earlier, during which the president reiterated that there would be no reversal of the fuel subsidy removal policy.
In his message, Abure called on Nigerians to extend a hand of fellowship to their neighbours in the spirit of the season and urged prayers for the nation’s soldiers engaged in the ongoing fight against insurgency and banditry.
The statement read, “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 the country is facing.
“But I am using this opportunity to task society to show love to a neighbour who may be in one form of lack or the other. At this time, I also 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 trenches across the country, ensuring that terrorists and gunmen are kept at bay so the rest of us can celebrate Christmas. I urge all Nigerians, particularly clerics, to keep these patriots in their ceaseless prayers.”
Abure further encouraged Nigerians to take the Christmas season as an opportunity to love, serve, and forgive one another.
He also appealed to Labour Party members to show compassion to the millions of Nigerians living below the poverty line.
“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. Conversely, there is nothing that will bring more condemnation to humanity than hardening our hearts and being vindictive towards those around us.
“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 allow the significance of the birth of Christ to manifest in our lives,” he stated.
