Despite the economic downturn occasioned by the scarcity of petroleum products across the country, Christian faithful yesterday joined their counterparts across the world to celebrate Good Friday, as part of activities marking the Easter celebration.
Although the event was low-keyed given the state of the nation, some prominent Nigerians, nevertheless, urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the Nigerian Project.
For instance, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Yakubu Dogara, called on Christians to use the Easter period to pray for the restoration of peace and economic stability in the country.
A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Turaki Hassan, in Abuja, Dogara said the Easter symbolised sacrifice and service to God and country, and therefore, urged Nigerians to emulate the life of Jesus Christ who laid down his life for mankind.
“Times are hard, our country is going through difficult times occasioned by economic downturn. Government alone cannot do it. Our contemporary challenges require that we persevere in our prayers for leaders at all levels and the country for divine wisdom to enable us surmount them.
“This time calls for more patience, sacrifice, prayers and a renewed hope in the Nigerian nation. We have passed through even more difficult situations before, this too shall pass away, so long as we remain steadfast in our prayers for leaders and the country,” Dogara said.
Speaking also, Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, expressed optimism that the country was capable of scaling the current economic precipice through selflessness, hard work and patriotism by the people, irrespective of social stratification. In an Easter message by his Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka, the governor said these were the sterling attributes that distinguished Jesus Christ for which his death and resurrection had become an annual celebration among the Christians. Ajimobi said: “We can’t make an omelette without breaking eggs. This is the time for us to start breaking the eggs. Without pains, there will be no gains.
A statement signed by Oritsejafor and made available to journalists in Abuja, the CAN president said sacrifice, love and humility which is the focus of Good Friday, must permeate through the society.
“This is a time when Christians in parts of the country are plagued by insurgency; I call for steadfastness and unwavering faith in God, the maker of all things,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jigawa State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said it had deployed over 1,000 personnel to beef up security during the Easter celebrations in the state. The state’s NSCDC Commandant, Malam Muhammad Gidado, told journalists in Dutse, that the gesture was to ensure hitch-free celebrations.
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