As Christians across the world celebrate Easter Sunday, it presents more than a time of joy—it offers a critical moment for introspection. Commemorating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Easter stands as a powerful symbol of unconditional love, sacrifice, and redemption. In a country like Nigeria, grappling with political instability, economic hardship, and social division, church leaders believe the message of Easter must transcend tradition and transform the nation’s conscience. ADEOLA OGUNLADE spoke with key church leaders who shared their reflections on the meaning of Easter and its urgent relevance in Nigeria today.
Easter, call to spiritual rededication — Baba Aladura Israel Akinadewo, President, OAIC.
For Baba Aladura Israel Akinadewo, President of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), the Easter period is full of rich spiritual lessons that trace from Ash Wednesday through Palm Sunday to Passion Week, it is a demonstration of the memories of the remarkable sacrifice of Jesus Christ to humanity.
“Jesus fasted 40 days to confront Satan. That shows us the power of separating from sin through discipline and devotion,” he said.
Akinadewo additionally posited that Jesus’ triumphant entry to Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-19) elicited several landmarks for believers to learn forgiveness, use the House of Prayer for things that will glorify God, and be selfless in Christians’ service to God and humanity.
He encouraged Christians to see Easter as a season to renew their walk with God and focus on eternal things.
“True Easter celebration is not about activities or pageantry—it is about rededication, forgiveness, and prayer. We must focus on the salvation race,” he said.
Akinadewo also warned leaders and believers against materialism, calling it a contradiction of the values Easter represents.
“Leaders must embrace simplicity and selflessness. Displaying wealth and pride is antithetical to Christian growth and humility.”
He also dismissed critics who question the celebration of Easter, labelling them as “Holier-than-thou Christians” who often miss the spiritual essence of the season.
“The divine steps we take to honour Christ cannot be faulted. Let those who know the truth stand by it.
Love that redeems — Emmanuel Udofia, Former Primate, The African Church
The former Primate of the African Church, Emmanuel Udofia, declared that Easter is the ultimate symbol of sacrificial love.
According to him, Easter is a profound symbol of God’s sacrificial love for humanity. He adds that it is a time to reflect on the depth of Christ’s selfless act—dying not because we were perfect or deserving but because we needed redemption.
“Jesus Christ didn’t come to die for the good or righteous; He came to rescue us from sin and darkness.
“He offered Himself not because we were good or worthy, but because without Him, we couldn’t fulfil God’s purpose in our generation,” Udofia explained.
He described Christ’s death and re spiritually and morally so that people could live truthfullysurrection as a mission to set humanity free—spiritually and morally—so that people could live in truth and worship God sincerely.
Udofia believes the message of Easter goes beyond religion; it calls for unconditional love and unity among Nigerians.
“Every Nigerian, regardless of tribe, religion, or background, should see themselves as God’s creation—made in His image.
“When we truly love one another, there’s no room for hate, division, or destruction,” he said.
He emphasized that love is the foundation for national healing. According to him, many of the crises facing the country stem from a lack of genuine love and compassion.
“Easter teaches us that love forgives, love builds, and love unites,”
“If we embrace that, we can begin to rebuild our communities and restore peace in Nigeria.”
“When we love, we don’t kill. We don’t hate. We don’t slander.
“Love covers a multitude of sins and builds communities,” he added.
Power of remembrance, selflessness” — Archbishop Joseph Ojo, Calvary Kingdom Church
Archbishop Joseph Imariabe Ojo, General Overseer of Calvary Kingdom Church International, believes the essence of Easter is remembering the price Christ paid.
“The sinless man died for the sinful. That’s the essence of Easter, adding that “Jesus paid a debt He didn’t owe. That’s a sacrifice.”
Ojo warned against the intellectualisation or theological debates that attempt to undermine the truth of Christ’s death and resurrection.
“No argument can change what we believe. Jesus died and rose again. That is the foundation of our salvation,” he said.
He said Easter should stir not just reflection, but repentance and a recommitment to live for others.
“If we truly remember His sacrifice, then we should also be ready to sacrifice. Our leaders, especially, must learn that true leadership is about giving up something for the good of others
Preach truth, not hyper-grace — Bishop Chidi, President, Pentecostal Ministers Forum
For Bishop Chidi, President of the Pentecostal Ministers Forum (PMF), Easter is a moment for the Nigerian church to recalibrate.
“Despite the massive presence of churches in Nigeria, we remain one of the most corrupt and fraudulent nations.
“Why? Because many churches have derailed from preaching the truth,” he said.
He urged pastors and church leaders to use the Easter season as a time to return to the gospel of repentance and righteous living.
“We need to preach the original message of the cross—condemning sin and calling for transformation,” he said. “Not hyper-grace messages that make people comfortable in wrongdoing.”
He warned that unless churches begin to stand boldly for truth and integrity, the impact of Christianity in Nigeria will continue to decline.
“Easter is about the power of transformation. That same power must reflect in our pulpits and our people.”
