The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says it has
forgiven Abubakar Suleiman (pictured), chief executive officer (CEO) of
Sterling Bank, over the bank’s controversial Easter message.
In celebration of Easter, Sterling Bank had posted an Easter
message where the bank compared the resurrection of Jesus Christ with ‘Agege
bread’.
The message, which was shared on social media platforms and
also sent to its customers via email, showed the picture of a golden-brown
bread divided in two with the caption ‘Like Agege Bread, He Rose!’”
The message elicited harsh reactions on social media,
especially from Christians.
CAN described the message as “provocative and insensitive”
and called for the “immediate removal” of Suleiman.
But in a statement on Saturday signed by Joseph Daramola,
its national secretary, the association said it had forgiven the CEO.
It said this followed an acceptable and genuine apology
letter written to it by the bank on April 20, 2022 which was personally signed
by Suleiman.
“Equally, some well-meaning
and highly placed Nigerians have been appealing to CAN to forgive in the
Christian spirit and in consonance with the message of Easter,” the statement
reads.
“As a result of this development, CAN has resolved to
forgive Sterling Bank and its Chief Executive. We always remember that ‘to err
is human and to forgive is divine.’
“In taking this step, we are following the footsteps of our
Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ who asked God to forgive those who nailed Him to
the cross unjustly and has taught us to forgive always.”
CAN therefore called on Christians in the country to also
forgive the bank and its management.
“Those who are
considering stopping patronising the bank as a result of the blunder should
stop the process but instead continue doing business with the bank,” the
statement reads.
“We appeal to corporate institutions especially the banks to
be more sensitive, considerate and professional in handling their public
messages. Whatever that can cause religious crises in the country should be
avoided at all costs, both by the government and the business sector.
“We appreciate our youths who heeded our directive and
refused to be dragged into the streets to protest against the bank as being
touted in some quarters.
“Finally, We acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of the well-meaning
Nigerians who intervened in the matter.”
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