Christian faithful celebrate Palm Sunday in Ilorin, call for peace, economic relief

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

Christians in Ilorin took to the streets to mark Palm Sunday, remembering the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago, and giving a signal for the conclusion of the forty-day Lenten fast period.

In Ilorin, worshippers from various denominations gathered at Saint Barnabas Cathedral, Sabo-Oke, before embarking on a procession through major city routes, including Murtala Way, Maraba, Amilegbe, Ipata, Opo-Malu, Emir’s Road, Taiwo Isale, Unity, and the Post Office area.

A parallel group set out from First Baptist Church, Surulere, joining the main procession at Unity Road.

Addressing Christian faithful, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kwara State chapter, Right Reverend Sunday Adewole, urged believers to remain steadfast in faith and service to God.

He also appealed to the government and security agencies to prioritize the protection of lives and property, while also noting the hardships facing citizens due to rising petroleum prices and the prevalence of power outages.

Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters, Reverend Timothy Akangbe, encouraged worshippers to pray for the progress of Kwara State and the nation, stressing the importance of love and humility in daily life.

Prophet Segun Korode of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church Ilorin District Headquarters reminded Christians to give thanks to God for His faithfulness while encouraging participants to emulate the humility of Jesus Christ, who brought salvation to all humanity.

The Palm Sunday celebration in Ilorin highlighted both spiritual reflection and a collective appeal for improved security and economic relief as residents prepare for the Easter festivities.