Easter advert: We’ve forgiven you, CAN tells Sterling Bank

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says it has forgiven Sterling Bank and its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, over the provocative Easter advert by the bank where it compared the resurrection of Jesus Christ to ‘Agege Bread’.

Sterling Bank had in its Easter message on April 17 compared the resurrection of Jesus Christ to ‘Agege bread’.

The bank, in a statement issued by Suleiman, later apologised for the message, noting that the content of the the message was insensitive and failed to consider the sober nature of the resurrection of Jesus.

Suleiman stated the message which had no “malicious intent” had since been withdrawn by the bank.

However, CAN, in a statement issued on Saturday by its General Secretary, Joseph Daramola, said besides the “acceptable and genuine” apology letter from the bank dated 20 April, 2022 and signed by its Chief Executive Officer, well meaning and highly placed Nigerians have been appealing to CAN to forgive the CEO.

The association stated: “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.

READ ALSO: Easter advert: CAN berates Sterling Bank, calls for CEO’s removal

“We hereby call on all Christians in the country to join us in forgiving the Sterling 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.

“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,” the statement read.

The Star