Thousands of worshipers and prominent clerics gathered at Deeper Life Bible Church in Sokoto on Monday for an interdenominational Easter prayer organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Sokoto State Chapter.
The event, themed ” _Jesus Is Alive,”_ was aimed at seeking God’s intervention for peace in the state and across Nigeria.
Addressing the congregation, Sokoto State CAN Chairman, Revd. Dr. Kayode James Moses, said, “We have come together on this special occasion of Easter to lift our voices in praise and to intercede in prayer for peace in our land.”
He emphasized that Easter serves as a reminder that Jesus triumphed over death and the grave, declaring victory over sin and darkness.
“Today, as we celebrate this resurrection power, we declare that the same Jesus who conquered the grave is still alive and at work in Sokoto State, in Northern Nigeria, and across our nation. He is our hope, our strength, and our peace in the midst of every storm,” he added.
Highlighting the unity of Christians in Nigeria despite challenges, Revd. Kayode noted, “In a region where being a Christian sometimes comes at a cost, you have chosen to stand and declare: ‘ _Jesus is Alive!’_ This gathering is not just an event; it is a declaration of faith, a fellowship of believers, and a corporate cry to heaven for the peace of Sokoto and Nigeria.”
On the nation’s worsening security situation, he stated, “We cannot gather today without acknowledging the cloud of insecurity that hangs over our state and many parts of the North.
“Banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks have brought fear, pain, and loss to many families, both Christian and Muslim. Lives have been cut short. Communities have been displaced. Farmers can no longer remain in their land at peace. Parents live in anxiety over the safety of their children.
“Our hearts bleed for the widows, orphans, and all who have suffered in this season of violence. Yet, even in this darkness, we remember that Jesus is Alive! He is the Prince of Peace.
“He calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee, and He can bring peace to our troubled land. We pray today for divine intervention.
“We call on the government at all levels, security agencies, and all stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities with greater commitment, wisdom, and action.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the Planning Committee of the CAN Easter Prayer for Peace and regional Secretary of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) North West, Pastor Ben Musa, hailed the gathering as a resounding success.
He stressed that Nigeria’s challenges require both prayer and decisive action from leaders tasked with protecting lives and property.
Adding to the call for national unity, Professor John Babatunde Olabode urged Nigerians to pray for all leaders while reminding leaders to deliver justice fairly, regardless of religion, region, or creed.
The prayer sessions were conducted in multiple languages, with Professor Umar Kiro Kalgo leading prayers in Fulfude and Hausa, and Senior Apostle Leo Nwasunwun and others offering prayers in English.
