Catholic Bishops Express Concern over Atmosphere of Uncertainty During Easter Celebrations

Nigeria's Catholic bishops have lamented that the majority of Nigerians will be celebrating Easter this year in an atmosphere overshadowed by uncertainty, tension, and pessimism. In their Easter message, the bishops called on every Nigerian to remain hopeful for better days ahead, despite the current predicament. Senator Jibrin Barau, the Deputy President of the Senate, also joined in celebrating Easter, emphasizing the importance of unity, tolerance, and perseverance.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 35,000 personnel to ensure the protection of lives, property, and critical national assets and infrastructure during the Easter celebrations. The Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, issued the directive in an effort to maintain peace and security throughout the country.

The Catholic bishops stressed that just as Christians have a strong belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, they believe that God will not allow injustice, oppression, and death to prevail permanently in Nigeria. In their message, they urged Nigerians to pursue peace by rejecting injustice, discrimination, bigotry, and fanaticism, which can cause discord and disunity.

The bishops expressed concern over the current state of the country, highlighting economic difficulties, insecurity, and kidnapping, particularly in the northern part of Nigeria. They called on Nigerians to reflect on the nation's challenges and recommit themselves in prayers and sacrifices. They believe that these challenges are surmountable if Nigerians unite, love one another, and pray for the nation and its leaders.

Meanwhile, the NSCDC has deployed personnel across all zones, state commands, and the Federal Capital Territory to ensure a smooth and peaceful Easter celebration. The Commandant General instructed zonal commanders and state commandants to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as maintain the security of lives and properties.

As Nigerians celebrate Easter, the messages from the Catholic bishops and Senator Barau serve as reminders of the need for unity, tolerance, perseverance, and prayer in overcoming the current challenges faced by the country. The deployment of NSCDC personnel aims to provide maximum security and safeguard essential facilities and infrastructure during the festive period.