The national chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has charged Nigerians to use the Christmas period to love, forgive and pray for soldiers who are ensuring our safety.

Mr Abure, in his Christmas message to Nigerians and party faithful in particular, urged them to always show compassion to millions of Nigerians living below the poverty level.

He said Jesus Christ, who was born in a manger, lived his entire life working to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged, the poor, oppressed, depressed and the sick.

“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 society to show love to a neighbour who may be in one form of lack or the other.

“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,” Mr Abure said.

Mr Abure said there is nothing that would bring more joy to humanity than to be ready and willing to forgive.

“I therefore call on Nigerians to imbibe the teaching of Christ that says ‘forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespasses against us,” he added.

(NAN)