From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
As Christians in Nigeria join their counterparts across the world to celebrate this year’s Christmas, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has encouraged them and Nigerians of other faith to amplify the language of peace, unity and tolerance.
CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in his Christmas message, said this year’s Christmas is being celebrated amidst uncertainty, fear, untold suffering, hardship and pain in the face of a harsh economy, record inflation figures, worsening poverty situation and a weakened security system due to bad governance.
“This precarious situation in our national life can be likened to the sufferings, helplessness and hopelessness of the Israelites as a result of the decisions of their leaders to forsake God and pursue after their bellies which they have made into gods through greed, selfishness and blatant corruption.
“Nevertheless, the message of Christmas informs us that God will not abandon us, rather, He will continue to intervene in the affairs of mankind. On our side, we should resist the temptation to speak the language of despair and division over our lives and our nation. Let the story of Christmas provide us with inspiration to speak the language of peace to our neighbours regardless of differences in religion, ethnicity or political leanings,” he suggested.
He, however, challenged political leaders, especially those jostling for the opportunity to lead Nigeria in 2023, to use the Christmas season to reflect on the words of the new-born Messiah who, when it was time to inaugurate His rescue mission in the world, expressed the consciousness that He was anointed to preach the good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to the captives and sight to the blind, free the oppressed, and proclaim Lord’s favour.
He urged them to be prepared to promote and ensure justice by insisting that the resources and positions in governance are shared equitably among people of all regions and tribes as that will help to harness the abundance of potential in Nigeria for national development.
“As we gear up to elect a new set of leaders at both the federal and state levels in the first quarter of 2023, Christmas is a reminder that God has not forsaken us. Therefore, we should pray to God to open our eyes to be able to discern and vote for those who will govern the nation with godly fear and devotion.
“Also, let those contesting for elective positions realise that the forthcoming election is not a do-or-die affair; rather, they should release that it is God that gives power to whoever He pleases. They should eschew violent conduct and toe the path of honour and peace as they campaign for votes.”
He, however, encouraged Nigerians not to allow fear of insecurity and violence to force them away from voting during the 2023 general election. “We must remember that the spirit we have received from God through the coming of Christ into the world is not of fear but of power, and of love, and of sound mind.
“Religious and political leaders as well as the media should also use this Christmas season to reinforce the hope of the masses in a better, more peaceful and secure Nigeria come 2023,” he appealed.