The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission has condemned the recent killings in the country and urged Nigerians to uphold love and respect for one another during Holy Week and beyond.

Bishop Stephen Adegbite, NCPC executive secretary, gave the charge in Abuja on Wednesday.

‘Holy Week’ is a significant period in the Christian calendar that commemorates the last week of Jesus Christ’s life, leading up to his resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Mr Adegbite said the week, which began with Palm Sunday, marked Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, symbolising the start of his journey to the cross.

According to him, the call for Nigerians to shun killings and embrace love and respect is imperative, particularly in this ‘Holy week’ because the values are essential for building a harmonious society.

He noted that Nigerians have the power to choose to protect lives and be law-abiding because everyone is a leader in their own way.

“In the marketplace, you are also the president. This is because the president cannot do everything and be everywhere. If you do your bit and I do my bit, we will be moving forward. If you go to other nations where things are working, everybody obeys the law and respects the lives of others.

“People should not be barbaric and think they are carnivorous animals, killing people for nothing and not be bothered or disturbed. In the Holy Quran or Bible, you can never find such,” he said.

Mr Adegbite referenced the Bible, specifically the Mosaic Law and Christ’s teachings, to emphasise the importance of loving one’s neighbour and respecting the lives of others.

The NCPC executive secretary highlighted the coincidence of Lent and Ramadan this year as a message from God to live in peace in Nigeria and worldwide.

“So keep yourself holy beyond the Holy Week; do not go back to your old ways of life after Lent. It is good to do good because when you are in the Lord, you are more than a majority and God will continue to protect you, guide you, and lead you.

“We need peace in the world. Let it start from our hearts. Let it start from our relationship with the next person and it shall be well with Nigeria and Nigerians,” he said.

(NAN)