The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abeokuta, the Most Rev. Dr. Peter Odetoyinbo, says the Easter season brings a message of hope and renewal, urging citizens to allow this spirit to influence their attitudes and aspirations.
Bishop Odetoyinbo, who made this statement in his Easter message, called on Nigerians to deeply contemplate the significance of Christ’s Resurrection amidst the current challenges facing the nation.
He highlighted how Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection redefined notions of victory and glory, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and service to others.
“Christ through His death and resurrection has redefined our understanding of victory and glory. Glory is now perceived as the cross and sacrifice of the self rather than the conquest, acquisition of power and the right to rule. Though as the son of man, on him was conferred dominion, glory and kingship that is everlasting (Dan 7:14), yet He suffered and having been made perfect, He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him. (Heb. 5:9),” he said.
While speaking on the prevailing hardships in the country, the Bishop urged sincere introspection by individuals and collective contributions to national challenges.
He bemoaned the prevalence of selfishness and the relentless pursuit of personal gain, which he identified as contrary to the principles of Christ’s teachings.
“We must be sincere in asking ourselves how we have individually and collectively contributed to the present menace. No one is ready to make sacrifices for the other any longer as everyone seeks to enlarge his or her coast and build a private empire.
“As a people, we must all admit that we have made wrong choices in the past that did not encapsulate the plan for our common good and a better future for ourselves and posterity. This is the time to retrospect and make efforts to fix Nigeria once and for all,” the clergy stated.
Bishop Odetoyinbo called on the Nigerian government to intensify efforts in addressing key elements contributing to insecurity, such as poverty, marginalization, tribalism, and bigotry.
He urged collaboration between citizens and the government to support local production and foster economic prosperity.
The Bishop implored patience and cooperation with the government while emphasizing the importance of sincerity of purpose in addressing the nation’s pressing issues.