Archbishop Adewale Martins of the Lagos Archdiocese has called on political leaders to put an end to the spates of killings across the country.

He made the call on the celebration of Easter, according to a Saturday statement by the Diocese’s Communication Director, Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu.

Several killings have been recently reported across Nigeria, including in Kwara, Nasarawa, and Plateau States.

“At this auspicious occasion of the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, I extend my heartfelt greetings and prayers for a blessed and joyous Easter celebration.

“It is my prayer that the profound significance of this period—the ultimate demonstration of divine love and sacrifice—will permeate our hearts, renew our spirits, and fortify us for the journey ahead. Let the joy of the empty tomb fill our homes and communities, reminding us that even in the darkest of circumstances, the light of Christ prevails.

“This Easter, we gather in celebration against a backdrop of significant national challenges. We are acutely aware of the harsh economic realities that have become the daily burden of countless Nigerian families.

“The persistent threats to our security—from rural communities plagued by banditry to urban centers grappling with instability—have sown seeds of fear and anxiety. I acknowledge these trials, and I carry the weight of your collective groaning in my prayers, knowing that the path many of you walk is one of immense sacrifice and endurance.

“It is precisely in this context of suffering and uncertainty that the message of Easter speaks most powerfully. The cross was a place of profound suffering, injustice, and apparent defeat. Yet, it was not the end of the story.

“The resurrection is the ultimate testament that God is sovereign over every force of darkness, every economic downturn, and every threat to human life. I urge you, my dear brothers and sisters, to place all your trust in God”, he said.

He urged the masses not to allow the violence to weigh negatively on their faith in God.

“Do not let the weight of these challenges erode your faith. In the silence of your prayers, in the fellowship of your families, and in the communal life of our parishes, find the strength that comes from above.”

He mourned victims of the fresh Jos attacks.

“On a sad note, my heart reaches out to the victims of the recent terrorist attacks that occurred in Angwan Rukuba in the city of Jos on Palm Sunday and claimed the lives of over 27 innocent Nigerians.

“It is very disheartening that the perpetrators of this dastardly act chose to do so on a day that is sacred to followers of Christ. It is also unfortunate that the government has consistently abdicated its responsibility for securing the lives and properties of Nigerians; it has failed woefully to put an end to the lingering cases of insecurity across the country, despite its numerous assurances.

“This only points to the need for Nigerians to be alert at all times and be prepared to protect themselves and their loved ones from attacks by these bandits who prey on the vulnerability of the helpless citizens.”

ArchBishop Martins called on the government to prioritise human lives over political ambitions, adding that there is no justification for the killings.

“While we condemn in very strict terms these persistent killings of innocent Nigerians, we once again call on the government at all levels to prioritize human lives over politics.

“There is no justification for these unwarranted attacks, despite the enormous funds allocated to security and the endless unfulfilled promises we receive daily. The policies formulated and the actions taken by those in power should place the welfare, security, and dignity of every Nigerian above partisan interests, political calculations, or personal ambition.

“We cannot afford to have political manoeuvring delay the delivery of essential security, stall economic relief, or undermine the unity of our nation. The blood of our citizens, the tears of our mothers, and the hunger of our children are not political tools; they are a sacred call to action.”

He also spoke on the recent increase in prices of petrol, saying it had caused more hardship on citizens

“The recent hike in the cost of petroleum and diesel to an all-time high, despite our being a major producer of same, points to the fact that we have failed in placing our economic priorities right, thereby causing more hardship on hapless citizens”.

He, therefore, called on leaders to sacrifice for their citizens in the spirit of leadership.

“I therefore call on our leaders at all levels to demonstrate the spirit of sacrificial leadership embodied by Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve. They must rise to the occasion by using all the paraphernalia of their exalted offices to put an end to this reign of terror on Nigerians by terrorists and improving on the welfare of the citizens.

“Failure to do these, it will only be proper for those responsible for these lapses to be bold enough to resign and allow for more competent hands to take over. At this point, we cannot overemphasize the need to secure the lives and property of the citizens with unwavering determination to forestall a further breakdown of law and order.”

He advised Nigerians to choose better leaders in the upcoming elections.

“As the next national elections draw near, it has become important that we all be more actively involved in the processes that will produce our next crop of leaders in all cadres of our national lives. We must, as a necessity, be interested in choosing those to whom we will entrust our lives and properties in their safe custody; those who will truly serve them with honesty, sincerity of purpose, and most importantly the fear of God.

“Lastly, I urge all Nigerians not to succumb to despair or allow our diversity to be weaponized against us. Let us be agents of reconciliation and peace in our own spheres, extending the same grace and compassion we have received from God to our neighbors.

“I pray for the repose of the souls of all who have recently lost their lives to insecurity across the country, particularly in Sokoto, Maiduguri, and Plateau States. I pray for divine comfort for the bereaved families. I wish all Nigerians a safe, peaceful, and blessed Easter.” (Channels)

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