The Apostolic Church Nigeria in Umuahia, Abia State, marked "Black Sunday" this weekend. The service concluded a three-day national mourning declared by the Christian Association of Nigeria.
CAN had called for prayers from Friday through Sunday. The period was meant to address the wave of killings and kidnappings plaguing Nigeria.
Apostle Joseph Okoroafor, Deputy Territorial Chairman of the Apostolic Church for Igboland, delivered the sermon. He told worshippers that insecurity demands urgent collective prayer from all Christians.
"Travelling these days is no longer easy," the cleric noted. He painted a grim picture of hardship gripping the nation.
Okoroafor pointed to economic collapse and hunger affecting millions. According to him, some Nigerians struggle to afford two meals daily.
He urged the congregation to pray for national leaders. Military personnel fighting on the frontlines also need intercession, he added.
"We need prayers for Nigeria against bandits and insurgents," Okoroafor said. Citizens must also strengthen their personal security awareness, in his view.
Lives are being lost daily without accountability, the church leader lamented. He called this a troubling pattern affecting both Christians and other Nigerians.
Okoroafor challenged the federal government on military preparedness. He argued that adequate equipment would help soldiers win decisive battles against armed gangs.
The "Black Sunday" service drew large crowds to the Umuahia headquarters. Worshippers observed the occasion in solemn prayer and reflection.
