By Olalekan Olayiwola, Fasilat Lawal, Jeffrey Ahonmisi, Rotimi Famakin
Amid prayers and celebrations to mark Easter Sunday, clerics from different churches in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, have expressed concern over the state of insecurity in the country.
Using the occasion to reflect on the message of sacrifice and hope, the church leaders urged governments at all levels to take concrete steps to restore peace and protect citizens.
At the Cathedral of St. James the Great, Oke-Bola, Ibadan, the Bishop of Ibadan, the Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa, lamented that Christians in some states might not celebrate Easter freely due to fear caused by insecurity, charging all concerned to make every state peaceful.
The Most Reverend Akinfenwa appealed to the government to address the fuel price hike as a matter of urgency, noting that Nigerians can no longer bear the burden.
Also, at the Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT), Igbo Oloyin Assembly, Ojoo, Ibadan, the cleric in charge, Pastor Emmanuel Olugbade, charged Christian faithful to intensify prayers for the restoration of security and peace in the country.
The Assistant Pastor in charge of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Charity Assembly, Wire and Cable, Apata, Ibadan, Pastor Abiodun Reuben, called on political leaders to uphold freedom of religion in the discharge of their duties.
The Shepherd in charge of the Celestial Church of Christ, Irapada Parish, Orogun, Ibadan, Venerable Superior Evangelist Martins Adeyemi, challenged Nigerians to remain hopeful, expressing optimism that the country will overcome its challenges.
The Parish Priest of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Basorun, Ibadan, Reverend Father Ekinne Ugwoegbu, charged Christians and Nigerians in general to trust in God, regardless of their challenges.
Reverend Father Ugwoegbu added that Easter, which symbolises the resurrection power of Christ, should inspire the faithful to embrace the significance of His sacrifice on the cross of Calvary for the liberation of humanity.
Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle
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