By Sola Ojewusi
As Christians across Nigeria and the world celebrate Easter, the Spiritual Head and Founder of Celica Church of Christ, His Holiness, Revd. (Dr.) Emmanuel Adetunji Adeonigbagbe (AP), has called on Nigerians, especially political and religious leaders, to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, humility, integrity and selfless service exemplified by Jesus Christ.
In a stirring Easter message released to mark the season, the revered cleric described Easter as “the glorious confirmation that death does not have the final word; love, sacrifice and obedience to God do.”
According to him, the resurrection of Christ remains the ultimate symbol of victory over darkness and a source of renewed hope for the nation amid its present social and economic challenges.
“This sacred season calls every one of us, ordinary citizens and leaders alike, to move closer to God,” he said. “Let Christ’s example shape our daily living: sacrifice that puts others first, humility that extinguishes pride, zeal for God’s work even when no one is watching, and swift obedience to His voice.”
The cleric urged Nigerians to demonstrate love beyond ethnic, religious and economic divides, stressing that love for one’s neighbour remains the clearest evidence of faith in action.
Message to Political Leaders
In a direct message to the nation’s political leadership, Revd. Adeonigbagbe said Easter presents a solemn moral challenge and a mirror for leadership.
He called on leaders at all levels to emulate Jesus Christ as the Servant King, whose life was defined by humility and sacrifice rather than personal ambition.
“Lead not as overlords but as shepherds,” he charged. “Let the resources of this nation serve the people, not private ambitions. Let your policies heal, not wound. Let your words unite, not divide.”
He further urged public office holders to shun corruption and resist the temptation of power for selfish gain, reminding them that leadership is a sacred trust for which they will one day give account before God.
The message emphasized the urgent need for governance that prioritizes the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, including access to education, food security, job creation, and peace for farmers and communities across the country.
Charge to Religious Leaders
Addressing religious leaders, the spiritual leader warned against what he described as “religion without compassion.”
He called on church leaders to make their pulpits platforms for Christ-centered truth, humility and service rather than self-glorification.
“We are keepers of truth, not merchants of fear; shepherds, not gatekeepers,” he said. “Let our conduct reflect sacrifice, humility and obedience before we demand it of others.”
He urged faith leaders to defend the poor, correct with gentleness, and serve as bridge-builders in a nation deeply in need of healing and unity.
Prayer for Nigeria
Revd. Adeonigbagbe also called on Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country, insisting that divine intervention remains essential for national restoration.
He specifically prayed for peace in troubled regions, justice for the oppressed, jobs for the youth, and food on every family’s table.
“Nigeria’s needs are great, but our God is greater,” he declared. “Only He can mend what politics and wealth cannot heal.”
A Hopeful Easter Charge
Ending on a note of hope and spiritual renewal, the cleric urged Nigerians not to be overwhelmed by present difficulties but to move forward with renewed courage inspired by the resurrection of Christ.
“Christ is risen! Let Nigeria arise and reflect that life of sacrifice, selflessness and resurrection power.”
He wished all Nigerians a peaceful and joyful Easter celebration, concluding with the declaration:
“Happy Easter. Hosanna in the highest.”
