Published by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Sokoto, Nigeria — Christian clerics and faith leaders in Sokoto State used the Easter Monday celebration to issue a powerful appeal for peace, unity, and collective sacrifice against a backdrop of ongoing security challenges that have affected communities across northern Nigeria this year. In one of the most high-profile Easter gatherings in the region, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) convened worshippers and leaders from different church traditions at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Sokoto State’s capital, urging Nigerians to embrace the deeper meaning of the season beyond ritual observance.
The event, known locally as the “Easter Praise and Prayer for Peace,” drew hundreds of worshippers from Catholic, Protestant, Pentecostal, and Orthodox churches. In remarks that set the tone for the service, the CAN chairman in Sokoto State, Reverend Kayode James, said the resurrection of Jesus Christ represents more than a religious belief — it is a symbol of hope that “darkness can never overcome light,” particularly in moments of fear, uncertainty, and communal strife.
“Jesus is alive! The stone was rolled away, the tomb is empty, and death could not hold Him. That same resurrection power is at work in Sokoto State and across Nigeria today,” Reverend James told worshippers, describing the Easter gathering as “a declaration of faith and a corporate cry for peace in our land.”
Reverend James acknowledged the difficult environment in which many Christians practise their faith in parts of northern Nigeria, where insecurity has been a persistent threat. He referenced ongoing incidents of banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks that have displaced families and cast a shadow over daily life. His comments reflected broader concerns from Christian and civil society leaders nationwide over recent attacks against religious communities.
While CAN’s message focused on hope and resilience, the emphasis on security and unity comes amid reports of violent attacks in other parts of the country during the Easter period. In neighbouring Kaduna State, assailants attacked two churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, resulting in the deaths of at least seven worshippers and the abduction of others on Easter Sunday. Local officials confirmed the attack occurred as congregants gathered for worship, sparking renewed calls for improved security in rural communities.
Back in Sokoto, Pastor Ben Musa, chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria in the state, echoed the need for both spiritual and civic sacrifice. He described the Easter season as a moment for Christians not just to pray but to demonstrate unity and moral courage. “Jesus laid down His life and rose again. If we must move forward as a people, we must embrace the spirit of sacrifice. Without sacrifice, we are going nowhere,” he said, urging believers to support responsible governance and to embrace active citizenship as part of a broader response to national challenges.
Pastor Musa outlined what he described as a three-fold approach to addressing the country’s difficulties: sustained prayer, accountable leadership, and committed civic engagement from citizens. His message was intended to bridge spiritual reflection with practical calls for social cohesion.
Leaders at the event sought to make the gathering inclusive by extending participation beyond those physically present. Those unable to attend were included through online streaming and media coverage, highlighting efforts by faith organisations to reach wider audiences for their message.
The Easter service also underscored the theme of peace as core to the Christian faith. Speakers repeatedly reminded attendees that Christianity, at its heart, promotes coexistence and mutual respect. “Christianity is a religion of peace. The message of the resurrection is peace and goodwill to all men. We must reflect that in our daily lives,” Pastor Musa said.
The theme for this year’s Sokoto Easter event was “Jesus Is Alive,” chosen to reinforce the foundational belief of the Christian faith in triumph over suffering and death. Organisers said the event is an annual feature of Easter Monday in the state, intended to bring Christians from diverse backgrounds together in worship and intercession for national peace.
Reactions from participants reflected optimism and a renewed commitment to mutual understanding. Many who attended expressed hope that the Easter message would inspire tangible improvements in communal relations and prompt effective action from both religious and political leaders. “Because He lives, we can face tomorrow… peace will come to Sokoto State and Nigeria,” Reverend James affirmed toward the end of the service.
The appeals in Sokoto are part of a wider pattern this Easter season, as other religious and political figures across Nigeria also used the occasion to urge reflection on national unity, tolerance, and social renewal. From calls for peaceful coexistence by public officials in other states to messages of reconciliation and hope from civic leaders, Easter this year has become a focal point for national introspection amid persistent security and socio-economic pressures.
In addition to spiritual leaders’ appeals, security authorities have also engaged with communities during the Easter period. In Sokoto, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police responsible for the region extended greetings to all residents and emphasised the importance of peaceful celebrations. He assured citizens of increased police presence across Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states to ensure the safety of lives and property during the festivities, underscoring the broader urgency of cooperation between the public and security agencies.
As Nigerians conclude the Easter festivities, the combined messages from religious leaders and security officials reflect the intertwined concerns of faith, security, and national unity at a moment when many are seeking both spiritual reassurance and practical solutions to challenges facing the country.
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