…says Ash Wednesday is a time for Christians to reflect on their mortality, sinfulness and need for salvation.
Awka, Nigeria — The iNews Times reports that the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has called on Christian and Muslim faithful to align their faith in prayers for Nigeria as both Ash Wednesday and Ramadan are commemorated.
In a goodwill message marking the twin religious observances, the CP urged adherents of both religions, particularly in Anambra State, to sustain the message of peace by demonstrating love, forgiveness and tolerance toward one another.
According to him, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent a 40-day period of prayer, fasting and repentance leading up to Easter. He described it as a time for Christians to reflect on their mortality, sinfulness and need for salvation.
He noted that Ramadan, on the other hand, is a sacred month of fasting and spiritual growth for Muslims, during which they abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset.
“Both Ash Wednesday and Ramadan share common themes of repentance, self-reflection and spiritual growth,” Orutugu stated.
The police commissioner further disclosed that activities to mark the observance included a church service held at the Command Headquarters, where ashes were applied on the foreheads of the faithful.
He emphasised the importance of interfaith harmony, urging residents to use the solemn season to promote peaceful coexistence and national unity.
