Christians in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Sunday joined in the commemoration of Palm Sunday, remembering the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago.

The event also marked the conclusion of the 40 days Lenten fast and the start of the Passion Week leading up to Easter.

Christian faithful and worshippers from across denominations gathered before embarking on a procession through major city routes within the state capital.

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kwara State chapter, Rt. Rev. Sunday Adewole, while addressing the procession, urged believers to remain steadfast in faith and service to God.

Mr Adewole said christians must continue to uphold their faith even in challenging times.

He appealed to government and security agencies to prioritise the protection of lives and property, highlighting the hardships facing citizens due to rising petroleum prices and erratic electricity supply.

Speaking on behalf of the state governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters, to the governor, Rev. Timothy Akangbe, encouraged worshippers to pray for the progress of Kwara State and the nation at large.

Mr AbdulRazaq also emphasise the importance of love and humility in daily living.

“As we reflect on this Holy Week, let us show kindness and remain committed to uplifting our communities,” the governor said.

A former CAN Secretary in the state, Olusola Ajolore, called for a proactive response to insecurity, urging the state government to efficiently prevent the loss of lives and property, especially as the Easter celebration approaches.

Mr Ajolore also stressed the need to tackle unemployment and constitutional review to address contemporary challenges.

Some of the participants in the procession who spoke during an interview said they were grateful to God for being part of the event.

One of them, Oluwatoyin Elizabeth, said it was a privilege being part of the commemoration of the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ.

“Today marks a significant phase for every christian. It was because of the crucifixion that Christ was born. So for every believer it signifies the beginning of our redemption from sin, and its a joyful thing to behold,” she said

Also, Titus Awoyemi said, “I am always glad when Easter approaches, it makes me remember the sacrifice of Christ on the cross.

“Today, we want the world to know that Jesus Christ is king. I urge every believer to be humble as Christ did by entering Jerusalem on a colt. This is a lesson for all of us.” 

(NAN)