THE Trade Union Congress of Nigeria has noted that though Nigerians remain the most religious people on the face of the earth but, they “hardly emulate the good virtues of our respective beliefs.”
In its Christmas message to Nigerians contained in a press release, the TUC admonished that Nigerians “must realise [that] the cowl [hood] does not make the monk,” adding that “partaking in spiritual exercises is not enough; more is expected. We must practice what we preach.”
Co-signed by TUC President, Comrade Quadri Olaleye, and Secretary General, Comrade Musa-Lawal Ozigi, the TUC heartily congratulated all Christian faithful as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, while also appealed to them not to forget the very essence of his birth – love and sacrifice.
The release quoted Comrade Olaleye to have charged “Nigerians to remember to share with their neighbours because it is a season of gift-giving all over the world. “It takes kindness to give; and when we are kind to one another there will be no room for evil thoughts. Injustice and criminality have become common sights in our society today”, he added.”
The press release reads:
PRESS RELEASE
TUC FELICITATES WITH NIGERIANS
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) heartily congratulates all Christian faithful as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and also appeals to them not to forget the very essence of his birth – love and sacrifice.
The workers body said Nigerians remain the most religious people on the face of the earth but “we hardly emulate the good virtues of our respective beliefs. We must realise the cowl does not make the monk.” Partaking in spiritual exercises is not enough; more is expected. We must practice what we preach.
The President of Congress, Comrade Quadri Olaleye FCIA charges Nigerians to remember to share with their neighbours because it is a season of gift-giving all over the world. “It takes kindness to give; and when we are kind to one another there will be no room for evil thoughts. Injustice and criminality have become common sights in our society today”, he added.
The Congress called for rededication to the service of humanity in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ which emphasises tolerance, patience, kindness, care for the needy and love for one another, among other virtues.
His words: “This festive season affords us an opportunity to love, share and forgive. I must add that we must also pray for the unity, peace and prosperity of the country.
“We can only overcome our myriad of challenges when we begin to exhibit unconditional love towards one another. Ordinarily love should come from any one irrespective of status but at this time our leaders should exhibit it more to calm the tension in the country.”
Comrade Quadri charges that love should reflect in the policies of government, infrastructural development, justice, etc. He reiterated that it is the only way we can a positive change that would further unite the country and foster development.
We wish all Nigerians merry Christmas and prosperous New Year. God bless you all. Amen.
Comrade Quadri Olaleye, FCIA, MNIM; President, TUC
Comrade (Barr.) Musa -Lawal Ozigi mni; Secretary General, TUC
24th December, 2021
