By Arnold Neliba
ABUJA, APRIL 11, 2023 (CISA)– “Notwithstanding the aborted dreams and shattered hopes resulting from the 2023 botched general elections in our nation, we should never surrender to despondency and depression,” said Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) in his Easter message.
“The blind greed of a few for power at all cost must not prevail over the positive aspiration of the generality of Nigerians, who look forward to the dawning of a new nation, where the dignity and rights of each individual are recognized and respected; where all Nigerians are accorded equal opportunities in all spheres of life; where ethno-religious cleavages are overcome; and attitudes of discrimination and intolerance rejected,” said the archbishop of Owerri.
Archbishop Ugorji stated that “Easter brings a healing message of hope to the disillusioned and broken-hearted. Now that the aggrieved contestants in the last general elections are seeking redress in the court of law, the fate of the country is in the hands of the judiciary.”
As the country awaits the outcome of the case filed in court contesting the election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, winner of the presidential election with 8.8 million votes against 6.9 million gathered by Mr Abubakar and Mr Obi’s 6.1 million votes, Bishop John Oyejola of the Catholic Diocese of Osogbo in his homily, cautioned politicians and religious leaders against utterances that risk the country’s stability.
Bishop Oyejolaencouraged Nigerians not to despair amid the difficulties, pain, tension, frustration, and fear in the country.
“We should let the resurrection joy lift us from the darkness of despair and hopelessness. As we celebrate this hope, I want to remind us all, both leaders and followers, that on the cross where Jesus died, righteousness, justice, mercy, and love met. As we witness to the Risen Lord, let us all work for justice, peace, righteousness, and love,” he said.
“I invite our political leaders to respect the rights and choices of the people. Be truthful in their dealings, faithful to their promises, and work for the unity of this country. Our religious and political elites should shun divisive rhetoric and adverse language that can throw the country into more confusion. The resurrection of Jesus that we celebrate at this time should give us the opportunity to recommit ourselves to the ideals of our calling as children of God. It should help us work for unity, progress, and love,” urged the bishop.
