Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ibrahim Ramalan
Published on 2024-04-02 18:24:47
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticized the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for its Easter message, calling on the FIRS to retract the statement and issue a public apology. In a statement released by the National Director of National Issues and Social Welfare at CAN, Commodore Abimbola Ayuba (rtd), the organization expressed concerns over the FIRS message, which stated, “Jesus paid your debt, not your taxes.” CAN deemed the message as offensive and derogatory to the Christian faith, undermining the unity and respect among diverse religious groups in Nigeria.
CAN emphasized the importance of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria, expressing deep concern over the dissemination of provocative messages during religious holidays. The organization highlighted the role of public institutions in upholding exemplary conduct and fostering mutual respect among different religious groups. The recurrent spread of offensive content, especially during religious holidays, poses a threat to the delicate fabric of national unity and undermines the efforts of individuals striving to promote harmony within the society.
The controversy surrounding the FIRS Easter message has sparked debates on the role of government agencies in promoting religious harmony and respect for diverse beliefs. While emphasizing the significance of tax compliance, critics raised concerns about the insensitivity and religious bias perceived in the FIRS statement. The call for inclusivity and respect towards all religious groups in public messages aims to prevent tensions and conflicts within the country.
CAN’s statement urged FIRS to retract the message and issue a public apology for the distress caused by the offensive content. The organization also called upon both public and private entities to exercise caution and consideration for the diverse religious backgrounds of Nigerian society in their communications.
The Easter message from FIRS, signed by Chairman Muhammad Nami, emphasized the religious obligation of Christians to pay their taxes. However, the statement received backlash for its perceived insensitivity and bias, reigniting discussions on the need for inclusive and respectful communication by government agencies and organizations.
In conclusion, CAN’s strong response to the FIRS Easter message underscores the importance of promoting religious harmony, unity, and mutual respect among diverse religious groups in Nigeria. The organization’s call for retraction and apology reflects its commitment to upholding peace and understanding within the society. Moving forward, it is essential for all stakeholders to prioritize inclusivity and sensitivity in their communications to foster a more cohesive and harmonious Nigerian community.
Read the original article on DailyNigerian.com
