Bishop urges Nigerians to shun vengeance, embrace forgiveness

Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Reverend Dr Ignatius Ayau Kaigama, has called on Nigerians to forgo vengeance, hatred, and animosity in favor of forgiveness, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence as vital components for national progress. The Archbishop's message was conveyed to the Pious Union of Saint Rita of Cascia through Rev.

Fr. Richard Igyor, who spoke on behalf of the Archbishop at the union's 2026 National Feast Celebration held in Abuja. The event, themed "Cultivating Peace, Faith and Hope: Emulating Saint Rita’s Virtues," drew more than 1,000 attendees from diverse regions across the nation.

During his remarks, the Archbishop emphasized the significance of the virtues associated with Saint Rita, notably forgiveness, perseverance, faith, and commitment to peace, as pertinent to Nigeria, given the country's ongoing struggles with insecurity, political tensions, and social divisions. He urged Nigerians to transcend the pursuit of miracles and instead foster a profound spiritual connection with God, which would, in turn, shape their behavior towards others and their societal contributions.

Conveying the Archbishop's perspective, Rev. Fr. Igyor stressed that genuine devotion to saints should be evaluated by the willingness to emulate their virtues rather than the anticipated favors through prayers. He urged Nigerians to allow the principles of peace, love, forgiveness, and reconciliation to permeate their interactions within homes, workplaces, communities, and positions of leadership.

He further highlighted that Saint Rita's values provided practical guidance for a nation striving to overcome divisions and foster a more harmonious society.

Additionally, Cecilia Oyakhire, the Prior General of the Pious Union of Saint Rita of Cascia in Nigeria, encouraged women to assume a more prominent role in fostering peace and strong moral values within their families and communities. Oyakhire affirmed women's critical role in nation-building and posited that Saint Rita's life should inspire women to raise children who cherish peaceful coexistence and empathy.

She further noted the union's continuous reflection of Saint Rita's charitable spirit through initiatives such as hospital visits and support for individuals unable to afford medical costs.

Dr. Ukura Samuel, the Abuja Archdiocese National Grand Patron of the Pious Union and a former Auditor-General of the Federation, urged political and other national leaders to mirror Saint Rita's spirit of forgiveness and selfless service. He argued that leaders who embraced forgiveness and fairness would be less inclined to persecute political adversaries, subordinates, or other societal members.

Dr. Samuel posited that the virtues of Saint Rita could potentially diminish hatred and political discord, particularly as Nigeria approaches its next election.

The call for embracing these virtues follows the ongoing political competition and disputes ahead of the upcoming election cycle, with religious and community leaders consistently urging Nigerians to resolve their differences peacefully. Additionally, Abuja Archdiocesan Coordinator, Bro. Celestine Makwe, emphasized the collective responsibility of Nigerians in constructing a society where forgiveness and peaceful coexistence were esteemed.

Makwe cautioned that vindictiveness, enmity, and animosity could exacerbate divisions and impede progress towards national development. He advocated for relentless efforts to cultivate a nation where peaceful coexistence and forgiveness were prioritized, urging Nigerians to forgive one another and resolve disagreements without succumbing to hatred or violence.