By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Ayau Kaigama, has called on Nigerians to embrace peace and reject violence, warning against what he described as the “cruelty of Good Friday” in the nation’s current realities.

In his 2026 Easter message titled “Peace, Not War: Avoiding The Cruelty Of Good Friday in our Nation,” Kaigama said: “The Resurrection of Christ is not merely an event of the past; it is a living and powerful promise that God’s divine power is still at work among His people even in the most difficult and trying times.”

He noted that despite the message of Easter, Nigeria continues to face economic hardship, insecurity, and social divisions, stating: “This Easter finds us again as a nation passing through trials that weigh heavily on the heart.”

The cleric referenced recent violence in parts of the country, saying: “In recent weeks, our hearts have been deeply wounded by fresh waves of violence, particularly in Jos and parts of Kaduna and Taraba states.”

He added: “Innocent men, women, and even children have lost their lives in brutal attacks that reflect a troubling persistence of terror and lawlessness.”

Calling for national action, Kaigama said: “I therefore urge all Nigerians to reject corruption in all its forms, to be agents of peace in our communities, resisting the temptation to respond to hatred with hatred.”

He also urged citizens to make informed choices ahead of the 2027 elections, stating: “Do not sell your conscience for temporary gain. Do not be swayed by empty promises or divisive rhetoric.”

Addressing those in authority, he said: “Leadership is a sacred trust, a service to God and humanity,” adding that power “is given for the purpose of service, not self-enrichment.”

On religious harmony, the Archbishop said: “We need to learn to accept and respect religious differences,” noting that “Christianity and Islam have coexisted in Nigeria over the centuries even during very difficult times.”

He warned against violence and injustice, stating: “These are not rumors. These are documented realities,” referring to attacks on communities, places of worship, and civilians.

Kaigama further criticised the response to insecurity, saying: “The Government appears only after blood has been shed… to ‘restore normalcy’, while survivors are left to bury their departed dear ones and traumatized.”

Clarifying remarks attributed to him on international intervention, he said: “My call… was for strategic support… to cripple the activities of these perpetrators of evil,” adding that he did not advocate arming any religious group.

He emphasised that both Christians and Muslims are victims of violence, stating: “I stand for peace and the peaceful coexistence of all Nigerians.”

Quoting a religious position, Kaigama said: “God does not listen to the prayers of war mongers,” stressing that violence contradicts faith and human dignity.

He concluded by urging Nigerians to pursue unity and renewal, saying: “May the power of the risen Christ pull us and our nation away from danger and set us on the path that leads to enduring peace and prosperity.”