…hold peaceful processions
By Joke Adeniyi-Jackson
Christians all over the world, yesterday, trooped out in large numbers to observe Palm Sunday, marking the triumphant entrance of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago.
In Ilorin the Kwara State capital, Christians took part in the exercise that lasted over four hours.
The participants commenced the procession from Saint Barnabas Cathedral Sabo-Oke, went through major streets such as Maraba, Amilegbe, Ipata, Opo Malu, part of Emir’s road, Taiwo Isale, Unity road, Post Office and back to the starting point at Muritala Mohammed road.
Another batch started the exercise at First Baptist Church, Surulere to connect General round about, Taiwo Oke and joining the procession at Unity.
The participants were singing and dancing, holding Palm fronds and shouting Hossana.
Addressing the congregation, the Chairman of the Christians Association of Nigeria, Kwara State chapter, Evangelist Timothy Opoola stated that Jesus Christ came to the world and died for the sins of mankind to redeem the people.
Opoola, who is a Professor of Mathematics, implored Christians to show love to the people and proclaim peace as shown by Jesus Christ.
He also called on Nigerians particularly those in authority to fear God, stressing the need for unity among the people.
He charged the Federal Government to urgently stop killings in some parts of the country especially in Kaduna and Zamfara states.
Speaking with newsmen at the end of the procession, the Chairman Planning Committee 2019 Easter Celebration Committee, Rev. Samuel Adedayo commended the peaceful conduct of Christians, urging them to emulate the exemplary life style of Jesus Christ. Adedayo urged Nigerians to embrace and promote peaceful co-existence for the development of the nation.
The Chairman stated that no casualties were recorded even as he praised the security operatives and those who conducted the programme for their support.
Also speaking, the leader in charge of Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Ife Anu, Amilegbe, Ilorin, Prophet Peter Adeleke, appealed to the people to be humble, advising Christians to give their lives to Jesus Christ.
Prophet Adeleke called on those in authority to make the people their cardinal focus as power is transient.
Reverend Joseph Agboluaje of 2nd ECWA, Shao challenged Christians to make themselves available and serve God wholeheartedly.
He encouraged all Christians to fully participate in the passion week programmes that usher the church to Easter Sunday.
Also speaking, Special Apostle John Awotuyi charged Christians to respect constituted authority and be humble as taught by Jesus Christ for the Lenten period to be meaningful in their lives.
Pastor ldowu Constain of the New Life Holy Trinity Chapel, Gaa-Akanbi, Ilorin emphasised the need for Nigerians to continue to be their brothers’ keeper no matter how highly placed to further sustain friendly environment.
Pastor Segun James of Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Imole, Amoyo urged Christians to let the lesson of Easter be their guide.
Also, Pastor Isaac Gbemiga Adesina of Kingdom Seed Assembly, Sapati Ile Phase II Ilorin, said the Lord is still looking for people who will be available for his own use, calling on Christians to be ready to serve in the vineyard.
The programme marking Easter Celebration continues with the observation of Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday.
