From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Christians in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, joined millions of faithfuls across the world, to mark Palm Sunday with colourful street processions, using the occasion to call attention to growing concerns over insecurity and economic hardship in the country.
The annual event, which commemorates the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ, into Jerusalem, also signifies the end of the 40-day Lenten fast and the beginning of the Holy Week.
Worshippers from various denominations converged on Saint Barnabas Cathedral, Sabo-Oke, before embarking on a long procession through major parts of the metropolis, including Murtala Way, Maraba, Amilegbe, Ipata, Opo-Malu, Emir’s Road, Taiwo Isale, Unity Road and the Post Office area, before returning to the church for final prayers and benediction.
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Another group of worshippers began their procession from First Baptist Church, Surulere, moving through the State General Hospital and Upper Taiwo Road to join the larger gathering at Unity Road.
Speaking during the event, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kwara State, Right Reverend Sunday Adewole, urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith despite prevailing challenges.
“As we celebrate today, we must continue to serve God faithfully and uphold values that promote peace and unity in our society,” he said.
The cleric, who also serves as the Anglican Bishop of Kwara Diocese, appealed to government and security agencies to intensify efforts in safeguarding lives and property.
“Security of lives and property must be treated as a top priority. Our people need to feel safe in their homes and communities,” Adewole added.
He further lamented the economic strain on citizens, pointing to the rising cost of petroleum products and persistent electricity challenges.
“These economic realities are placing serious pressure on families and businesses. There is a need for urgent intervention to ease the burden on Nigerians,” he said.
Also addressing the congregation, Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Religion Matters (Christian Affairs), Reverend Timothy Akangbe, called on residents to embrace love, humility and constant prayers for the state and the nation.
“We must continue to pray for the peace, progress and development of Kwara State and Nigeria as a whole. Let us also show love to one another and remain humble in all we do,” the governor said.
In his remarks, former CAN Secretary in the state, Pa Olusola Ajolore, stressed the need for more decisive action against insecurity, urging governments to make effective use of security votes.
“There must be a more proactive approach in tackling insecurity. Government at all levels should ensure that resources meant for security are properly utilised to protect lives and property,” Ajolore stated.
He also called for urgent steps to address unemployment and advocated a comprehensive review of the nation’s constitution to reflect present-day realities.
Similarly, Senior Prophet of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, Ilorin District Headquarters, Segun Korode, encouraged Christians to continually give thanks to God for His faithfulness.
“Christians should emulate the humility of Jesus Christ, whose life remains a model for all. Through Him comes salvation for mankind,” Korode said.
Palm Sunday ushers in the Holy Week, which includes Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, marking key events in the Christian faith leading to the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
